“Reminiscences of Conquest And Patriotism”

“Mali 2002 triggers reminiscences of conquest and patriotism in the annals of Cameroon football. As title holders, the Indomitable Lions roared into Bamako a few days before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) rumbled off. Their den was in the town of Sikasso. Within and beyond the turf proper, the Indomitable Lions and their teaming supporters and officials painted the Malian town of Sikasso with the national colours. While the team required victories and goals to easily qualify for the knock out stage, their supporters inundated the few night clubs and the other night outfits in the town. Mali set a record in hospitality. All accredited journalists were provided free lodging in all the towns hosting the competition. This provided the numerous journalists the opportunity to spend their mission money on other social activities. From Sikasso, the Lions and their supporters relocated to Bamako. The semis pitting the Lions against Mali quickly made the Malian fans who were previously supporting the Lions to turn to ad...