In an exclusive interview with Africafootunited, two-time African champion Patrick Mboma shared his insights on the recently concluded AFCON 2023. The former Cameroon international delved into the championship, African football’s evolution, and offered candid assessments of both the Ivorian triumph and Cameroon’s performance.
Mboma expressed his admiration for Côte d’Ivoire’s triumph in AFCON 2023, lauding them as a surprising and worthy champion. Despite a tumultuous journey, the Ivorians overcame formidable opponents, including Nigeria, in a final that showcased their brilliance.
Discussing the Ivorian team’s seemingly irrational success, Mboma acknowledged an intangible element driving their performance. He highlighted the team’s ability to overcome challenges, adapt tactically, and the mental strength instilled by coach Emerse Fae.
On the broader landscape of African football, Mboma noted the increased competitiveness, dispelling notions of a diminishing hierarchy. He attributed the shift to the continuous improvement of teams, emphasizing the evolving nature of the sport on the continent.
Addressing the success of AFCON 2023, Mboma affirmed that the tournament met the challenge of delivering high-level matches, crediting the expanded participation of 24 teams. He emphasized the positive impact of improved structures and coaching quality on the evolving football landscape in Africa.
Turning the focus to his home country, Cameroon, Mboma candidly labeled their AFCON 2023 campaign as a failure. Despite a lone victory against Gambia in the group stage, Cameroon faced a resounding defeat against Nigeria in the Round of 16, surprising Mboma with the ease of Nigeria’s victory.
Responding to the broader view that Cameroonian football has regressed significantly, Mboma acknowledged the cyclical nature of success and expressed optimism about future rebounds with the right methods.
As an ambassador for the Indomitable Lions, Mboma evaluated his role positively, citing positive relationships with relevant bodies and offering opinions for transformative impact.
When asked about the possibility of taking on the role of Cameroon coach, Mboma indicated a readiness to accept the position but clarified that it would be in another life, indicating that he does not currently consider himself immediately capable.
In concluding remarks on AFCON 2023, Mboma commended the thrilling matches and an abundance of goals but highlighted issues with ticketing, spectator management, and stadium access. He acknowledged it as one of the most beautiful tournaments of the century but reminisced about the 2000 final as another historic moment in African football.
In closing, Patrick Mboma expressed gratitude for the interview, offering candid insights into the dynamics of African football and the enduring impact of AFCON 2023.
