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The Cameroonian football legend believes he deserves more credit for rescuing Barcelona during the 2006 Champions League final against Arsenal
Barcelona icon Samuel Eto'o has revealed behind-the-scenes details of the 2006 Champions League final win against Arsenal.
The Cameroonian striker, who played a pivotal role in the Catalans' 2-1 victory, believes he deserves significant credit for rallying the team at a critical moment during the game.
Eto’o delivers scathing Ronaldinho review
At halftime, Barcelona found themselves 1-0 down against a 10-man Arsenal side, despite having the numerical advantage.
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Eto’o recalled how the team was disjointed, with heads down, and coach Frank Rijkaard seemingly lost.
According to Eto'o, the main issue was Ronaldinho's desire to play solo, and speaking on "The Bridge" podcast, Eto’o shared how his intervention, including a tough conversation with the Brazilian star, changed the course of the match.
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Eto’o claimed that he even confronted Ronaldinho, saying, "Ronnie, either you play with us or you are going to sit on the bench," after which the Brazilian superstar asked for forgiveness and rallied alongside his teammates, sparking a second-half turnaround.
Eto’o’s rallying half-time cry
Eto’o’s equalising goal was the catalyst for Barcelona's eventual 2-1 triumph, with Juliano Belletti scoring the winner for the Blaugrana in the comeback win against Arsenal.
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Reflecting on his contribution, both on and off the pitch, Eto'o didn’t shy away from claiming that his leadership and crucial goal were the defining factors in securing the victory, adding, "I said to them [teammates], ‘But what are you doing? Get up, I’m going to score, I’m still here, what are you afraid of?’"
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The Cameroonian legend believes that his inspiring words and actions were crucial to Barcelona turn the tide in one of the most memorable Champions League finals, and that he was due more respect for helping the Blaugrana win their second UCL crown.
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