World Cup: Republic of Ireland v Cameroon Preview

Cameroon take their bow as African champions against the Republic of Ireland in Niigata.

The African side are expected to sweep aside a limited Irish team whose preparations for the finals have been mired in the ludicrous decision of captain Roy Keane to abandon the squad last week.

Although a talented midfield runner, it is hard to see Keane's presence at a World Cup finals proving a decisive factor for a limited Irish side with few chances to progress.

Cameroon have a depth of world class talent that should find a way through Ireland's tactics with speed a vital factor for the Africans.

Winger Pierre Wome and new Chelsea signing Geremi offer width and variation to a powerful midfield that is able to win the ball in bruising encounters. Ahead of them run Samuel Eto'o, Patrick Mboma and Pius Ndiefi and it is hard to see Ireland managing to deny them all goal scoring chances over the whole ninety minutes.

The game is likely to start quietly but if the Irish are pulled around in defence they may soon concede goals.

Ireland will try to blunt this threat with their hard work and organisation. This may be able to get a team to the finals but it may not keep them there.

The Irish have talents of their own to call on up front with Robbie Keane and tricky winger Damien Duff expected to impress but there is little to back them up.

The free kicks of Ian Harte or corner kicks to the head of tall striker Niall Quinn are the best bet for a goal from Ireland and if Cameroon coach Winfred Schafer has not drilled his players on defending these then a shock could easily happen. Once the Irish have the lead and something to defend they can be like granite to try and break down and Keane's pace on the break would head straight for Cameroon captain Rigobert Song and Raymond Kalla.

But Cameroon pass and move very well with power and speed in their best moves and have matched this with inventive ball skills to create space and some combative tackling.

The Africans are expected to progress through this group and they should start the tournament with a win if they can hold out against Irish set pieces which are very effective at times.