McCarthy chose to run the rule over final Group E opponents Saudi Arabia ahead of his squad’s clash with the still pointless and goalless Middle East side in Yokohoma next Tuesday.

The 43-year-old will have been satisfied with Cameroon’s narrow 1-0 victory which means a win by two clear goals for ‘The Boys in Green’ will guarantee the Republic’s place in the last 16.

McCarthy was perhaps fortunate the Indomitable Lions, and African Cup of Nations champions, did not win by a greater margin for they were denied a penalty and had what appeared to be a legitimate goal by Arsenal star Lauren ruled out in the first half.

But that would be detrimental to the Saudis who created a number of chances and at least restored some of the pride which had been so dramatically lost following their humiliating 8-0 defeat to Germany in their opening match.

They were lucky not to concede a penalty, though, in the opening minute when Daniel Ngom Kome was clearly tripped in the area by Mohammed Al Jahani, only for Norwegian referee Terje Hauge to wave away appeals.

With skipper and star striker Sami Al Jaber sidelined with an injury to his right ankle, Obaid Al Dosari took over the lone raider role up front, and should have headed home a free header in the ninth minute.

But the ball just cleared the bar, proving to be his one meaningful contribution to the match before being substituted in the 35th minute after stumbling awkwardly and appearing to twist a knee or damage his hamstring prior to being stretchered off.

Nawaf Al Temyat then curled a shot narrowly wide before Lauren headed home a right-wing cross from Geremi, understood to soon be joining Chelsea from Real Madrid.

The flag was raised, but Lauren was not the player interfering with play, although justice could be said to be served in the 65th minute when Cameroon finally took the lead.

Geremi’s raking pass over the top of the Saudi defence was first brilliantly taken on the run by Samuel Eto’o, the Real Mallorca striker linked with a move to Spurs, and he then nutmegged captain Mohammed Al Deayea with a sidefoot shot from 10 yards.

The Saudis did have second-half opportunities, noticeably through Al Temyat, but the defeat ensures their game with Ireland will be their last of the competition.

For Cameroon, they know a win over Germany will see them through to the second round, but a draw and a win for Ireland means they will be joining the Saudis on an early plane home.