The Inter Milan star beat Ivory Coast's Didier Drogba and Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan, who was deemed a frontrunner for the prestigious accolade.

Eto'o couldn't help his country go past the World Cup group stage but was much more impressive on club level.

The 29-year-old helped Inter win the Champions League, Serie A, Italian Cup and Club World Cup.

Eto'o claimed three consecutive Footballer of the Year titles between 2003 and 2005.

The CAF top prize is voted for by coaches and captains of 53 national teams in Africa.