Holland must fall for Cameroon to fly

Does Cameroon have any chance to make a deep run into the tournament?  The answer to this question has a lot to do with the success of the Netherlands.  The Netherlands are the clear favorite to win group E, however if Cameroon wants to see itself in the quarterfinals or the semis even, they must do more than just secure 2nd place finish.  If Cameroon can tie Holland in their head to head match and survive any underdog runs by either Japan or Denmark, then you will see a Cameroon team in serious contention for the cup.  This outcome is a long shot, but it is necessary if the Indomitable Lions expect to be the pride of Africa this tournament.

To put it in simple terms: Assuming the Lions do not collapse in group play, they are favored for the 2nd spot in their group.  A second place finish allows Cameroon to advance to the second round, however it also means that they will most likely face Italy.  Facing Italy in the second round is a near death sentence for Cameroon, as the experience and talent of the Italian squad will surely give the Italians the advantage.  Also, even if Cameroon were able to manufacture an unlikely victory in this match, their next opponent would surely be Spain.  Now I don't normally say never, but Cameroon does not have the tools to beat Italy and Spain back to back under any circumstances. 

However, in the alternative if the Lions can pull off a strong game against the Netherlands and win the group, their second round opponent will most likely be Paraguay.  A Paraguayan draw for the second round would be just what Cameroon would need to begin a run.  Paraguay is a strong squad which would force Cameroon to play in top form, however with the dazzling connection of Webo and Eto'o, Cameroon would be the favorite for this match.

A win over Paraguay would pit the Lions against the tournament favorites Brazil.  Having the opportunity to practice their form and gain momentum against a strong Paraguayan team would be the only real hope the Lions would have of stealing a victory from the overpowering Brazilians.  An improbable victory over the Brazilians would give Cameroon a semifinal birth, facing either the U.S., England or Serbia.  I don't think the Lions are over-matched against any of these opponents.

In the end, if Cameroon can surprise the group and come out at the top, their road to the World Cup will be far more favorable than if they simply squeak by and take the #2 position.  In either scenario, Cameroonian success is highly speculative, however anything can happen in the World Cup and the Lions can be a truly formidable foe when they are connecting on the pitch.