Coach is key for Cameroon

Former Rangers boss Le Guen took over last summer to help Cameroon reach the World Cup despite the side having taken just one point from their first two qualifying games.

"He brought us together at a tough time last year when wins were imperative," said Eto'o.

"He is a great psychologist and a great coach with modern ideas. We're delighted his contract has been renewed."

Zambia are under president's orders to win the African Nations Cup after failing to land the bigger prize of a place in this summer's World Cup.

Coach Herve Renard's team begin their campaign against Tunisia in Lubango. Zambia are 75th in the world rankings, which indicates they are the 19th strongest team in Africa and have done well just to qualify for the 16-team tournament.

But an expectant Zambia president, Rupiah Banda, met with the squad at the weekend, and said: "You must ensure that you win the trophy this time around."

Egypt made a winning start to the defence of their crown, staging an impressive fightback to beat Nigeria 3-1 in Group C.

The holders went behind in the 12th minute when Chinedu Obasi Ogbuke scored. But Egypt equalised through Emad Moteab and then Ahmed Hassan's deflected effort found the net.

Substitute Mohamed Gedo grabbed a late third goal.