Emmanuel Kunde Dies at 68: Cameroon Legend and AFCON Icon Remembered by Samuel Eto’o
- African football has been struck with yet another devastating news following the death of one of its revered sons
- Emmanuel Kunde, heralded as one of the greatest defenders of all time from Africa, sadly passed away on Friday, May 16
- Four-time African Best Player, Samuel Eto'o, has joined hands with the rest of the continent to mourn the death of Kunde
Former Cameroon international Emmanuel Kunde has passed away at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy that helped shape African football across two golden decades.
According to initial reports, the legendary centre-back went to bed on the evening of Thursday, May 15, and died in his sleep.
Source: Getty Images
Emmanuel Kunde dies at 68
While the cause of death is yet to be officially confirmed, renowned Cameroonian journalist Njie Enow stated that Kunde died in his sleep.
His remains have been deposited at the Yaoundé Central Hospital mortuary, pending further announcements from the family, per Kick442.
Kunde's passing is a monumental loss — not just for Cameroon, but for African football as a whole.
He wasn’t simply a player; he was a pillar in the foundation of Cameroon’s global footballing identity.
His legacy will continue to inspire future generations who dare to dream on the continent’s biggest stage.
Samuel Eto’o pays touching tribute
Among the many tributes pouring in, Cameroon FA president and African football icon Samuel Eto’o shared his sorrow via Instagram, using sad face emojis to mourn the fallen legend.
Meanwhile, UK-based Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana also expressed deep shock at the news, stating: “This is sad to hear. What happened?”
He went on to describe Kunde as a footballer whose game intelligence and physicality made life miserable for even the most clinical strikers.
African football expert Awal Mohammed Hudu of Kessben Media also shared his thoughts, reflecting on the late legend’s impact.
“As a sports historian, I’ve come across much about Kunde’s remarkable football legacy. It’s heartbreaking that he’s no longer with us, but I firmly believe his reputation as one of Africa’s finest defenders will endure,” he told YEN.com.gh.
Who is Emmanuel Kunde?
Kunde’s name resonates across generations not just because of his decorated CV but due to the commanding aura he brought to the game.
Known for his strength, tactical intelligence, and versatility, he operated primarily as a central defender but was equally effective as a defensive midfielder.
He remains Cameroon’s fifth-most-capped player and is also among the country's top 10 goal scorers — a rare feat for someone in his position.
His eye for goal, especially in set-piece situations, became a signature weapon for the Indomitable Lions.
Kunde was instrumental in Cameroon’s Africa Cup of Nations triumphs in 1984 and 1988.
On the world stage, he represented his country at the 1982 and 1990 FIFA World Cups, with the latter tournament marking Cameroon’s historic run to the quarter-finals, a first for an African nation.
He began his football journey at Mbankomo FC before featuring for clubs such as Tempête de Nanga-Eboko FC, Provenance, and Olympic Mvolyé.
Following his retirement from active play, Kunde took his leadership skills to the dugout, managing teams including PWD Bamenda, Canon Yaoundé, and US Bitam across two spells.
Ghanaian footballer dies after short illness
In a related report, YEN.com.gh shared the heartbreaking news of Ghanaian midfielder Gabriel Ahmed’s passing in Accra after a brief illness.
Ahmed, who notably won the 2012/13 Ethiopian Premier League title with Dedebit FC, left a lasting mark on both Ghanaian and Ethiopian football.
Since his demise, emotional tributes have poured in from across the sporting community in honour of his legacy.
Source: YEN.com.gh
