THE SIDELINES : Proud Cameroon to Hail Its Lions

Pride overcame dejection today as Cameroon prepared a grateful homecoming salute to its Indomitable Lions.

“For a defeat, it was more like a victory,” said the state radio after the Lions’ 3-2 overtime loss to England Sunday night in the World Cup quarterfinals. “Honor to those who know how to struggle, head high.”

Across Africa, the reaction was similar.

Never before had an African team reached the final eight in World Cup competition. The Lions’ strong showing prompted soccer’s governing body, FIFA, to allow the continent three representatives, instead of two, when the tournament is held again in 1994.

“Thanks, Cameroon,” said a headline in Fraternite Matin, the government-owned daily in the Ivory Coast.

Preparations were under way to give the team a hero’s welcome when it returns after a few days of rest in Italy. Also awaiting the players are bonuses offered by businessmen in Cameroon and elsewhere in Africa, including cars and cash.

A campaign has begun to raise funds for a monument to Roger Milla, 38, who came out of retirement to score four World Cup goals.