Cameroon's World Cup exit my fault, says Le Guen

Jun 23, 2010, 19:40 GMT

Cape Town - A downcast Cameroon coach Paul Le Guen admitted Thursday that he was responsible for his team's early exit from the World Cup.

Cameroon were the highest-ranked African team coming into the tournament, but they dropped out after losses to Japan and Denmark.

The Frenchman has come under fire at home for his team selection, particularly his decision not to start Arsenal's Alex Song against Japan.

'First the coach must be accountable ... it is my fault, let's not try to put the blame on somebody else,' he told journalists in Cape Town's Green Point stadium ahead of Cameroon's Group E meeting with the already-qualified Netherlands.

A tight-lipped Le Guen refused to elaborate on the reasons for the poor performance of his team and also of other African teams in the first tournament on the continent.

He would only say it was 'not a coincidence' that African sides have struggled. Only Ghana have a realistic chance of qualifying for the Round of 16; a draw against Germany on Wednesday evening would see them through.

Le Guen also refused to comment on reports linking him to the Australia job, although Thursday's tie is likely to be his last game for the West African nation.

The coach built his reputation with three successful years at Lyon, but has failed to hit the same heights since leaving in 2005.

Despite the failure, Le Guen said he would encourage his players to regain some pride against a team he considers one of the favourites.

'It's difficult, you know, when you have been eliminated, to re-motivate yourselves, but then it's our job,' he said. 'We may be disappointed ... it is painful, but still it is a privilege to be doing what we are.'

'We will fight with dignity and honour and defend the colours of Cameroon to the very last minute,' he added.