Rigo’s TotalEnergies CAF AFCON journey: The approach to knockout stages (Episode 2)

Rigobert Song has always approached the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations with unwavering determination, but the 1998 edition in Burkina Faso marks a particular turning point in his journey.

At just 22-years of age, he had already established himself as a leader in the Cameroonian defense and a key player in the Indomitable Lions' camp.After a successful group stage, where Cameroon finished top with two wins and one draw, the team approaches the knockout matches with great ambitions.

For Song and his teammates, the pressure rises: every mistake could be fatal, and every detail could change the course of a match.In the quarterfinals against the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Indomitable Lions are suddenly confronted with this reality. Despite their strength and discipline, they face a determined opponent and a Jerry Tondelua in great form.

This 1-0 defeat, by the narrowest of margins, is harsh, but for Song, it becomes a valuable lesson. This experience shapes his character and refines his approach to major competitions.