Sébastien Siani Reflects on Cameroon’s 2017 AFCON Triumph

In an interview with CAFOnline, former Cameroon midfielder Sébastien Siani recalled the Indomitable Lions' historic triumph at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2017.

With an important equalizer against Guinea-Bissau in the group stage and the game-winning assist for Vincent Aboubakar's goal against Egypt in the final, Siani was a key contributor to Cameroon's victory. He credited coach Hugo Broos's team's unity, discipline, and strategic planning for their unexpected triumph.

Cameroon surprised everyone by defeating hosts Gabon, a formidable Senegal team in the quarterfinals, and Ghana in the semifinals, despite missing a number of their best players prior to the event. Siani highlighted the team’s resilience and belief, particularly after the penalty shootout victory against Senegal, as the turning point in their title run.

Reflecting on the final against Egypt, Siani emphasized the squad’s calmness and determination to make history. He also paid tribute to Cameroonian legend Marc-Vivien Foé, honoring his legacy with the number 17 jersey after their victory.

Siani thinks Cameroon has a chance to replicate their 2017 triumph at AFCON 2025 if they continue to have team spirit, focus, and resolve.