EXCLUSIVE: Samuel Eto'o - Cameroon's Indomitable Lions are hungry for the World Cup

By Fabrizio Ponciroli

Cameroon and Inter striker Samuel Eto'o has exclusively told Goal.com that the pain of missing out on the 2006 World Cup will help fire the Indomitable Lions to South Africa when they clash with Morocco in a crunch qualifier this weekend.

Eto'o's nation will make an African record sixth appearance at the World Cup if they beat their opponents on Saturday. Having made a great recovery in Group 1, Eto'o and co. are just one step away from glory. The Nerazzurri striker is hoping his side don't slip up like they did four years ago.

"When we failed to qualify for Germany 2006 it came as a shock and it was hard to recover," Eto'o told Goal.com. "However, now we have to avoid making the same mistakes and look ahead. We have worked really hard, and we hope to take part in the World Cup next year."

Though Cameroon are favourites to make it through to the finals, the hitman knows Morocco will provide stern opponents.

"It's never easy when everyone is fighting for a place at the World Cup – the opposition are never easy and we know this.

"Morocco deserve respect and we have to use maximum concentration to face them."

The Indomitable Lions are eager to roar their way to the tournament, and Eto'o is hoping to be king of the jungle.

"Our nickname has plenty of significance for us. The lion is the symbol of someone who commands territory, earns respect and is feared. We will do our best to be considered the Kings of Africa," the former Barcelona ace added.

"We have the chance to show everyone what it's all about and to show the world the potential of African football."