The story of unexpected Cameroon in Italy 90

Last update 15 October, 2024 by Alberto Llopis

In it Italy World Cup 1990, The Cameroon team starred in one of the most fascinating and unexpected stories in football history. Known as “The Indomitable Lions”, They became the first African team to reach the quarterfinals of a World Cup, opening the way for the growth and recognition of African football globally. This surprising trip captured the attention of millions of fans and left an indelible mark on the sport.

The context: Cameroon before Italy 90

Before 1990, The African teams had not had a great impact on the history of the World Cups. Cameroon, After its modest performance in Spain 1982, where he failed to overcome the group stage, I wasn't among the favorites. However, With a template of talented and motivated players, and led by a veteran of 38 years, Roger Milla, Cameroon showed that he was willing to break the barriers of world football.

Cameroon's debut in Italy 90 : The blow to the world champion

He Italy World Cup 90 It started surprisingly to Cameroon. In his first game, They met nothing less than Diego Maradona's Argentina, The defending champion. Few gave them a chance against albiceleste power, But Cameroon was not intimidated.

With a strong defense and a implacable physical game, Africans surprised the world to win 1-0 With a goal from François Soma-Biyik. That victory was not only historic for being the first against an active world champion, but also marked the beginning of an epic career.

After triumph against Argentina, Cameroon continued his way in the group stage facing Romania and the Soviet Union. In his second meeting, They defeated Romania 2-1 With two goals from Roger Milla, The striker who to his 38 years would become a legend. Although they fell 4-0 Before the Soviet Union in the last party, Camerún had already secured his pass to the round of 16 as group leader, An amazing achievement for an underestimated team at the beginning of the tournament.

The impact of Roger Milla: The symbol of a revolution

Roger Milla was, definitely, The emblem of Cameroon in Italy 90. Called back to the selection shortly before the tournament, Mile not only scored crucial goals, but also became an icon with his famous “Banderin dance”, A celebration that made history. His influence on the team was unquestionable, leading with experience, charisma and a skill that challenged your age. Milla's performance in Italy 90 It is still one of the most memorable in the history of the World Cups.

Especially since Milla was already retired as a professional footballer to her almost 40 years and was taken from his retirement to become a national hero and a cult player in the history of football world. Thus leaving a great football story.

The round of 16: The deed against Colombia

In the round of 16, Cameroon faced Colombia, A South American team that had stars like Carlos Valderrama and René Higuita. The game was intense, and after 90 minutes without goals, The meeting went to the extension.

There, Roger Milla emerged again as a hero, scoring two goals in just three minutes. One of them with the collaboration of René Higuita in which it is, one of The greatest mistakes in football history.

Although Colombia discounted at the last minute, Cameroon won 2-1 and became the first African team to reach the quarterfinals of a World Cup.

Quarter finals: The end of sleep

Cameroon's trip stopped in the quarterfinals against England, but not before standing face and being about to achieve a new feat. After starting losing 1-0, Cameroon traced the score with goals from Emmanuel Kundé and Eugene Ekeke, putting 2-1 ahead and dreaming of the semifinals. However, two penalties converted by Gary Lineker, The second in the extension, They sealed the 3-2 Final in favor of the English.

Despite the defeat, Cameroon had left an indelible brand in the history of football. His aguerrido style, His fighting spirit and the magic of Roger Milla conquered the hearts of fans around the world.

African football after Camerún in Italy 90

Cameroon's impact on Italy 90 It was deep. The Indomitable Lions Not only showed that African teams could compete at a high level, but also raised the prestige of African football on the world stage. His success inspired generations of African soccer players and contributed to the expansion of football throughout the continent.

Roger Milla was named the African player of the year in 1990, And Cameroon became a reference for future generations of African teams who dreamed of following their steps in the World Cups.