Samuel Eto’o issues shoddy apology for assaulting YouTuber

Samuel Eto’o has issued a shoddy apology after getting into a physical altercation with an Algerian YouTuber at a World Cup match venue.

Reports suggested Eto’o lost his temper after a fan – revealed to be named Said Mamouni – asked whether Eto’o had given the referee a bribe before Cameroon’s crucial playoff victory over Algeria in March, which granted his side a place at the World Cup in Qatar.

The former striker disputed the claim – both verbally and physically – and on Tuesday issued a statement apologising for his actions, though it’s clear he remains upset over the provocative question.

In his statement, Eto’o wrote: ‘On 5 December, after the Brazil-South Korea match, I had a violent altercation with a person who was probably an Algerian supporter.

‘I would like to apologise for losing my temper and reacting in a way that does not match my personality. I apologise to the public for this unfortunate incident.

‘I pledge to continue to resist the relentless provocation and daily harassment of some Algerian supporters. Indeed, since the Cameroon-Algeria match on 29th March in Blida.

‘I have been the target of insults and allegations of cheating without any evidence. During this World Cup, Cameroonian fans have been harassed and pestered by Algerians on the same subject.

‘I would like to mention that the scenario of Algeria’s defeat was cruel but perfectly in line with the rules and ethics of our sport. All the appeals made by the Algerian Football Federation to the competent jurisdictions have been rejected.

‘I therefore call on the Algerian authorities and Federation to take their responsibilities to put an end to this unhealthy climate before a more serious tragedy occurs.”

In the footage, Eto’o initially appears happy to pose for photos with waiting fans as he makes his way out of the venue, before the man said to be Mamouni approaches him to his right holding a video camera.

The footage filmed by La Opinion, then seemingly shows the pair exchanging words, before the video cuts to a few seconds later, and Eto’o returning to the scene to confront Mamouni.

The incident that sparked such drama was Cameroon’s controversial World Cup qualifier win over Algeria earlier in the year.

In the match, Algeria had multiple efforts ruled out by Gambian referee Bakary Gassama before Karl Toko-Ekambi scored an eventual winner for Cameroon deep into extra-time.