A remarkable scene unfolded in Uganda on Tuesday evening following the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier between Cameroon and Zimbabwe, as goalkeeper André Onana became the center of an extraordinary display of adoration and excitement.
The Manchester United and former Inter Milan goalkeeper found himself at the heart of an unprecedented spectacle at the Mandela Stadium in Kampala.
Onana, who was in the Ugandan capital for the match, drew an intense reaction from fans that was nothing short of astonishing.
The event began with Onana and his Cameroonian teammates receiving a fervent welcome upon their arrival at the stadium.
Supporters, particularly those who are ardent fans of Manchester United, packed the stands in the hope of witnessing their hero in action.
Throughout the goalless encounter, the crowd’s enthusiasm for Onana was palpable, with the 28-year-old goalkeeper receiving continuous applause from the stands.
However, the fervor escalated dramatically after the match.
Following the final whistle, which saw the game end in a 0-0 draw, Onana was reportedly escorted away from the Namboole stadium under heavy police presence.
The unusual situation arose when he did not return to his hotel with the Cameroon team bus as expected.
Instead, Onana was swiftly transported by police to ensure his safety amidst the overwhelming crowd of fans eager to get a closer look at their football idol.
Such a fervent display is a rarity in African football and mirrors the kind of fan enthusiasm often seen in European tournaments like Euro 2024, but less commonly in African qualifiers.
Onana’s popularity, evident from the packed stands in Manchester United jerseys, underscored the unique blend of local and international football culture.
The scene, captured in a video that has since circulated widely, highlighted the extraordinary levels of admiration and support for Onana, reflecting both his standing in the football world and the deep connection fans have with their heroes.
The spectacle left a lasting impression on all who witnessed it and underscored the magnetic appeal of football that transcends borders and ignites passions across continents.
🎥 Les fans ougandais de Manchester United, présents au stade Nelson Mandela ce soir, ont scandé le nom d’Andre Onana pendant de longues minutes lors du match Zimbabwe – Cameroun. 👏🇨🇲 pic.twitter.com/94Rhr7CB7a
— AllezLesLions (@AllezLesLions) September 10, 2024
