Soccer News of Thursday, 29 May 2014

Source: supersport.com

Milla predicts tough test for Africa

African football legend and Cameroon icon Roger Milla has rated African teams ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup set to take place in Brazil.

The retired footballer explained to supersport.com of his thoughts on Indomitable Lions and their chances in a fortnight's time when the prestigious showpiece kicks off.

"They need to win their first match against Mexico and enhance their run when they play Croatia before finishing with Brazil. The former fixture is very important because it sets the pace for them if they really want to progress further."

As for African chances, he was diplomatic with the issue.

"I must say Africans are in the toughest groups in this World Cup. The five representatives will have to work harder to emerge victorious of their groups. This is different from the previous one; this is a tough path to take for all teams and all we can hope for is that they go the extra mile to overcome their challenges."

"Once we get out of the groups to the next round then maybe we can determine our potential to go all the way. It is impossible for me to pick the best performer of the five at this point. You cannot really tell because all teams have equal opposition if not even opportunities."

Milla was part of the Indomitable Lions team that ensured an African team reached the last eight for the first time in the World Cup 24 years ago.

He remains the oldest player to feature and score in the tournament, at the age of 42 and is famously remembered for his trademark goal celebration in the 1990 World when they eliminated Colombia 2-1in the round of 16 courtesy of Milla's brace.