In a thrilling climax to the Olympic soccer competition, Cameroon's young Lions won the gold medal in Sydney on Saturday when they came back from a 0-2 deficit at the end of the first half to force Spain to a penalty shootout.
Cameroon made no mistakes during the shootout, scoring five successive penalty goals against Spain's three to decide the match. In winning, they emulated Nigeria's feat in Atlanta in 1996.
Cameroon's first-half difficulties began within two minutes of Spain kicking off. Tamudo was fouled, Spain was awarded a penalty and Xavi made good use of the opportunity to open the scoring. Near half time, Gabri followed up with a second goal.
But eight minutes into the second half, Spain suffered an own goal when a ball aimed at the net by Patrick Mboma of Cameroon was deflected off Amaya. Five minutes later, Eto'o Fils of Cameroon scored to equalize. Spain's troubles were compounded by red cards which saw Gabri sent off 25 minutes into the second half, and Jose Mari near the end.
With no score in extra time, the 2-2 deadlock forced a penalty shootout.
Spain's Amaye gave the Cameroon side the opening they needed when he failed to net the ball after three successful shots from Cameroon and two from Spain. Each side scored once more, then Wome of Cameroon scored to wrap up the game, the tournament and the gold.
