Rigo and his AFCON: On top of Africa (Episode 3)

At the dawn of a new millennium, Cameroon wrote its name in golden letters with a third continental title in 2000, a victory that marked the birth of a legendary generation. "We weren’t expected," confides Rigobert Song, recalling the determination and solidarity that drove the Indomitable Lions. 

An AFCON marked by determination

From the group stages, the Indomitable Lions made their intentions of lifting the title quite clear. A victory over Ghana (1-0), a draw against Côte d'Ivoire (0-0), and a narrow win over Togo (1-0) secured their qualification for the quarter-finals.

Song emphasizes the team’s mindset: "We were afraid of nothing, we knew we were the best." 

In the quarter-finals, Cameroon dominated Algeria (2-1). "It wasn’t easy, but we never gave up," he remembers. Against Tunisia in the semi-finals, the Lions cruised to 3-0) win with an unstoppable M'Boma and Eto'o duo. "Patrick and Samuel, it was the perfect combination," says Song. 

An epic final against Nigeria

The final against Nigeria was a legendary match. "We started strong," recalls Song.

M'Boma and Eto'o scored quickly, but the Super Eagles equalized. "We knew we had to stay solid, that’s when our character made the difference," explains the captain. 

The penalty shootout sealed the fate of the Indomitable Lions. "I took responsibility," says Song, who converted his penalty with authority. Alioum Boukar made a decisive save, and Cameroon claimed the title. "It was an unforgettable moment," concludes Song. 

A dynasty in the making

With this title, Cameroon established itself as the dominant nation in African football. Song pays tribute to his teammates: "Marc-Vivien Foé was a leader, we still miss him today." As for Samuel Eto'o, he would become a global legend. "He was only 18, but we already knew he was special." 

The 2000 edition of the AFCON was not just a victory, but the beginning of a golden era.