Eight years after Cameroon’s stunning victory at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon, midfielder Sébastien Siani still vividly remembers the emotion of that triumph.
In an exclusive interview with CAFOnline, the former KV Oostende player described the 2017 AFCON win as “the Holy Grail,” reflecting on the team’s unexpected journey to the top.
Cameroon entered the tournament as underdogs, with a revamped squad featuring many young players and missing several key figures.
“At the beginning, many people didn’t believe in us,” Siani admitted.
However, under the guidance of coach Hugo Broos, the Indomitable Lions developed a strong team spirit and a “never give up” mentality.
Siani pinpointed the group stage victory against hosts Gabon as a turning point.
“Getting out of the group by eliminating Gabon at home boosted our confidence,” he recalled, acknowledging the crucial role played by goalkeeper Fabrice Ondoa.
Cameroon continued to defy expectations, overcoming a star-studded Senegal side in the quarter-finals. Siani highlighted the team’s tactical discipline and solidarity as key factors in that victory.
They then went on to defeat a powerful Ghana team in the semi-finals, fueled by their hunger and collective spirit.
Siani spoke highly of Broos, describing him as a “calm and pragmatic coach” who fostered a balance of freedom and discipline within the team. “He knew how to listen to us, understand us, and get the best out of everyone,” Siani said.
The former midfielder emphasized the unity of the 2017 squad as their secret weapon.
“We didn’t have the big names, but we were a real team,” he explained. “Everyone was playing for the collective, and we put our egos aside for Cameroon.”
Siani also shared his personal highlights, including his crucial goal against Guinea-Bissau in the group stage and the “magical” winning goal by Vincent Aboubakar in the final against Egypt, for which Siani provided the assist.
He described the post-victory celebrations, including the emotional tribute to the late Marc-Vivien Foé, and the overwhelming welcome they received upon returning to Cameroon.
Looking ahead to the next AFCON, where Cameroon is drawn in Group F with Ivory Coast, Gabon, and Mozambique, Siani believes the Indomitable Lions have the experience to advance.
He stressed the importance of discipline, solidarity, and determination as the keys to success in the tournament.
