Article by Jeff Katala
Let’s delve into a fascinating journey with the Fut Afrique website, a beacon for the rich tapestry of African football history. This platform serves not only as a repository of unforgettable moments but as a bridge connecting the present to the illustrious achievements of the past. Fut Afrique is committed to the noble task of ensuring that the current generation of African football aficionados is well versed in the heroic tales of yore.
Since Cameroon’s independence in 1960, Amadou Ahidjo has been at the helm as the nation’s president, with the capital’s stadium in Yaoundé bearing his name. It was during the 8th edition of the AFCON that Cameroon, along with Kenya, Togo (which secured its spot by defeating Ghana), and Mali, showcased their prowess in Yaoundé. Meanwhile, Douala hosted matches featuring Congo Brazzaville, Sudan, Congo Kinshasa (DRC), and Morocco – the latter being Africa’s representative at the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. The group stages saw Cameroon and Mali advancing to the quarter-finals, with both Congo’s also making it through from group B. Mali’s team boasted an array of exceptional talent, including Salif Keita – Domingo (Africa’s first Ballon d’Or winner in 1970 and uncle to Seydou Keita of Seville and Barcelona fame), among others.
Fast forward 50 years to the 33rd edition of the AFCON in 2022, neither DR Congo (formerly Zaire) nor the Republic of Congo managed to qualify, a stark contrast to their participation in 1972. That year, the Congo Red Devils were under the guidance of local legend Adolphe Bibanzoulou, a name unfamiliar to many despite his significant contributions. The team, comprising stalwarts like Ndoulé Ryno, François Mpelé, and Jean-Michel Mbono “the Witch,” showcased their prowess, ultimately facing Mali in the finals at the Amadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé.
On March 5, 1972, under the guidance of German coach Karl-Heinz Weigang, Mali, brimming with confidence, faced a determined Congolese team. Bibanzoulou’s unwavering belief in his squad, particularly in Mbono’s goal-scoring abilities, paid off as Congo clinched a historic victory. This triumph was not just a win for Congo but a testament to the prowess of local coaching talent, with Bibanzoulou outmaneuvering German counterparts in both the semi-finals and the final.
However, this glorious chapter raises an important question: What have Mali and Congo done to honour the legacy of the players who brought them continental glory? Sadly, many of these football legends, including the iconic goalkeeper Seydou Traoré, now live in obscurity, their contributions forgotten. Unlike international football legends who are celebrated by their clubs and countries, the heroes of Congo’s AFCON victory remain unsung.
This tale is a reminder of the fleeting nature of fame and the importance of remembering and honouring our heroes. As Fut Afrique strives to keep the memories of African football’s golden era alive, it challenges us to reflect on how we honour our sporting legends, ensuring their legacies inspire future generations.