NIIGATA -- Overcoming a 1-0 deficit at halftime and the absence of star playmaker Roy Keane, Ireland produced a great comeback in the second half to battle to a 1-1 draw against Cameroon on Saturday afternoon in their Group E game at Big Swan Niigata Stadium in the opening game of the World Cup on cohost Japan's home soil.
The Irish players struggled in the first half, and couldn't find their usual fast-tempo passing game, while Cameroon passed the ball around well and created a number of scoring chances on the right flank to threaten the Irish goal.
The Indomitable Lions came close to opening the score in the 18th minute through Samuel Eto'o but he was thwarted by a great save from Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given.