When Cameroon walked out to take on Colombia in the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup on June 26 2003, the nation was gripped. Having defeated the likes of Brazil en route to the last four, it looked as the Indomitable Lions had a real chance of winning the tournament.
It would prove to be an encounter that nobody would forget, but for very tragic reasons.
In the 72nd minute and with no other player around him, Marc-Vivien Foe, who had spent the previous season on loan with Manchester City, fell to the Stade de Gerland playing surface.
It became apparent very quickly that this was no ordinary injury and immediate attempts were made to revive the midfielder. However, after 45 minutes of resuscitation and oxygen, Foe was declared dead at the age of just 28.
© PA Photos
An autopsy late revealed that the former West Ham United player had suffered with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is a hereditary condition known to increase the risk of sudden death during exercise.
Not knowing of their teammate's plight, Cameroon went on to beat Colombia but then amazingly, FIFA ordered that the final against hosts France should also take place, despite both teams conceding that they would be happy to share the trophy.
Thierry Henry netted the winner for France in extra time, but it was abundantly clear that none of the players was concerned which way the result went.
Foe left behind a wife and three children.
Liam Apicella
