AFCON Opener: Cameroon, Burkina Faso envoys praise players, officials
Bessem Manga, the consul general of Cameroon in Lagos, applauded the performance of the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in the team’s opening match against the Stallions of Burkina Faso at the 2021 Cameroon Nations Cup.
On Sunday, the ambassador said this at a mini opening ceremony of the 33rd Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at the Cameroon consulate, Victoria Island.
Ms Manga explained that despite the team’s nervousness in the first few minutes, the players brought themselves back into the game.
The host country came from behind to beat Burkina Faso 2-1 in the opening match of the Africa Nations Cup in Yaounde.
“When the match started, as it is expected, they were nervous, especially when the goal came in, but they were able to get over that and focused on the game, which paid off eventually,” stated the envoy. “As the opening match, I’d say it was entertaining. Burkina Faso gave a good account of themselves, it could have gone either way because the two teams were fantastic, but I’m glad we won. I believe winning the first match will motivate the players and give them confidence in the next match, which is crucial.”
Also commending the players and the tournament’s organisation was Jean Bengaly, consul general of Burkina Faso.
“I appreciate the level of organisation; as Africans, we have come a long way, and we deserve to applaud ourselves. It will only keep getting better, one Africa. God bless Africa,” stated the envoy. “The players are entertaining. We have seen the beauty of African football, which is commendable.”
Also applauding the players was Bertrand Hedies, the Cameroonian Community in Nigeria’s head.
“It’s a good time coming with what we have seen so far, football is a tool for nation building. I hope after this tournament we remain united as one Africa. The players have done tremendously well, looking forward to the next match,” Mr Hedies said.
Captain Vincent Aboubakar converted two spot-kicks as hosts Cameroon came from behind to beat Burkina Faso 2-1 in the opening match in Yaounde on Sunday.
(NAN)
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