Roger Milla

Zurich: A call from Cameroon’s President made Roger Milla come out of retirement and play in the 1990 World Cup. He was 38 then. The rest, as they say, is history and the African nation went as far as the quarter finals. Milla, of course, played a huge role.

Two decades later, people still talk of Milla’s goals and his unique celebratory dance after each one of them. Now a brand ambassador for Coca-Cola, an old partner of Fifa, he spoke to The Telegraph here on Monday afternoon.

Milla isn’t comfortable conversing in English and, so, he spoke in fluent French and a lady (Danielle Gree) did the translations. The interview was conducted at the truly mind-blowing Fifa House.

Owing to time constraints, the remarkably fit Milla could only speak for around 20 minutes.

The following are excerpts

On being an icon

(Grins) I’ve handled the pressures and expectations well, I think... Remember, I come from a simple family.

Life changing after the 1990 World Cup in Italy

Well, yes, life did change... I not only scored, but danced my way into the hearts of millions... I’m an ambassador for the President of Cameroon, Paul Biya... I’m also an ambassador for the UN’s Aids programme... Then, I happen to run a Foundation which, among others, takes care of orphans... All this happened after 1990.

His idol

Pele, the one and only Pele.

Heroes outside football

Nelson Mandela and my President... I’ve learnt a lot from both.

The No.1 challenge for football

I’d say it’s ensuring fair play... Fair play from not only the players, but (team) officials and referees as well... Corruption of any kind, clearly, has no place in football.

Cameroon’s campaign in the 2010 World Cup qualifiers

Look, we’ve got two tough matches coming up, against Togo and Morocco... Having said that, we should count on our players to deliver... We’re already heading our group.... A World Cup in Africa without Cameroon wouldn’t be a disaster, but the tournament would still miss something.

Favourites to win next year’s World Cup

Brazil, they’ve been playing a good brand of football. Right now, I can’t think of any other team.

His 1990 trip to Calcutta

Your city? I have fond memories... I’d been there on an invitation... I remember having met Mother Teresa...

Suggestions for the football community in India

Have a good system at the grassroots level... As for the footballers, they’ve got to work harder. Success doesn’t come easy.

Message for young footballers

Firstly, respect the game and respect other footballers... If you respect the game, then you’ll get back respect... Secondly, you’ve got to work hard... You’ve got to train physically and tactically and you’ve got to do that every day... Don’t look for shortcuts.

Finally, whether he has met the hip-swinging diva, Shakira

(Laughs) Oh, oh... I’ve liked her performances (on videos), but haven’t met her as yet... Actually, now that you’ve asked me, I’d love to meet her!