Regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world ever (and the competition is quite big in that department), Gianluigi Buffon will watch this World Cup at his home, not only because Italy hasn’t qualified for Qatar, but also because he is 44. The legendary Azzuri keeper has 200 appearances for his country, from U-16 to the senior selection and has won European Under-21 Championship in 1996 and FIFA World Cup in 2006. But with bright prospects like Gigi Donnarumma between the sticks, Buffon can rest during the international break and watch some football.And just like any other football fan, he will choose the side which he will support. Since Italy is not in the tournament, there is only one team left for him – Cameroon.“As usual, when Italy are not there, I try to follow the sides where my club teammates or friends play, or those who are traditionally the underdogs. In this case, the nation I always support is Cameroon. They have a special place in my heart. For now, I still enjoy myself on the pitch and think I give my contribution. When I am no longer able to play or motivate myself at this level, I will think of doing something that excites me. I have no idea if that will be as a coach or director, it’s about having the humility to prepare and learn” said Buffon to Corriere Dello Sport.So, who will win it?And there is a famous story behind his selection. Thomas N’Kono was the Cameroonian goalkeeper who played at the 1990 World Cup. Buffon was a young player than, and he played in attack, but that soon changed, due to keeper’s performances.”All the eyes of the world were on players like Diego Maradona and Gary Lineker, but I was mesmerized by Thomas N’Kono. It was the things he did for Cameroon during that World Cup that inspired me to become a goalkeeper myself” said Buffon, who watched Cameroon defeat current champions Argentina before crashing out 3-2 against England in the quarter-finals.From Milla’s dance to Gyan’s tears: three African World Cup 1/4 finals as a maximum that calls to be toppedAnd thanks to N’Kono, the world witnessed one great goalkeeper – Gianluigi Buffon. The Italian was so fond of the Cameroonian, that he even named his son Thomas after N’Kono, and his counterpart called Buffon to participate in his farewell match in Cameroon. Apart from the Indomitable Lions, Serbia, Brazil and Switzerland will be in the Group G in Qatar. ##NAJAVA_MECA_6816022##
