CAMEROON FOOTBALL LEGEND EMMANUEL KUNDÉ DIES AGED 68

Cameroon is mourning the death of one of its greatest football legends, Emmanuel Kundé, who died at the age of 68. According to news reports, Emmanuel Kundé passed away peacefully in his sleep on the night of Thursday May 15 2025. His body was later taken to the mortuary at the Yaoundé Central Hospital. The sad news came as a shock to many fans and people in the sports world who remember him as one of the most important figures in Cameroonian football history.

Although the exact cause of his death has not been confirmed officially, Cameroonian sports journalist Njie Enow said that Emmanuel Kundé died quietly in his sleep. It was also revealed that Kundé had been facing some health issues for about two years before he died. However there were no clear public details about the illness he was dealing with. What surprised many was that despite his illness Kundé had still been active and seen in good health in recent times which made his sudden passing even more heartbreaking.

Emmanuel Kundé was not just a footballer he was a symbol of pride and success in African football. Born on July 15 1956 in Ndom, Cameroon he grew up to become a powerful defender known for his strength, intelligence and leadership on the pitch. He played a key role in the success of the Cameroon national football team also known as the Indomitable Lions during the 1980s and early 1990s.

Kundé’s football career was full of historic moments. He was part of the national team that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984 and again in 1988. In the 1988 final against Nigeria Kundé scored the winning goal from a penalty kick helping Cameroon lift the trophy for the second time. That goal is still remembered as one of the most important in Cameroonian football history.

He also represented Cameroon at two FIFA World Cups. In 1982 he played in Cameroon’s first-ever appearance at the World Cup held in Spain. But his most famous moment came in the 1990 World Cup in Italy when he scored a crucial equalizing penalty against England in the quarterfinals. That goal helped Cameroon become the first African country to reach the World Cup quarterfinals which was a major achievement and brought great pride to Africa.

At the club level Emmanuel Kundé played for top teams in Cameroon such as Canon Yaoundé and Tonnerre Yaoundé. He later played in France for Stade Lavallois and Reims. After retiring from professional football he became a coach and continued to be involved in football development in Cameroon. His life was always connected to the sport he loved.

Tributes have been coming in from all over the world. Samuel Eto’o, president of the Cameroon Football Federation and former football star, posted a sad message on Instagram expressing his sorrow and respect for the late legend. Many fans, former players and journalists also shared their memories of Emmanuel Kundé. Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana described him as one of Africa’s greatest defenders noting how powerful and intelligent he was during his playing days.

Emmanuel Kundé’s legacy is one that will not be forgotten. He was not just a player he was a leader and a true icon of African football. His achievements helped place Cameroon on the world football map and inspired many young African players to dream big. As the country says goodbye to a national hero his name and contributions will live on in the hearts of football lovers forever.

May Emmanuel Kundé rest in peace and may his family and loved ones find strength during this difficult time.