The league champions were hoping Cameroon, who will take part in the African Cup of Nations later this month, would allow Eto'o to play in Wednesday's match before linking up with his country teammates.

But Inter said on their official website that the 28-year-old striker will meet up with Cameroon on January 4 as originally planned.

Eto'o, the Nations Cup's all-time top scorer with 16 goals, will make a sixth appearance at the biennial tournament.

Cameroon, who were drawn in Group D, open their campaign against Gabon on January 13.

The group also includes Zambia and one-time African champions Tunisia.