A Cameroonian goalkeeper who played for clubs like Espanyol and won the African Cup of Nations in 1984 and 1988 .
Thomas NKono, born on July 20, 1956, is a Cameroonian footballing legend, renowned for his exceptional goalkeeping skills, which earned him the title of one of the greatest goalkeepers from the African continent.
NKono's journey to fame began in his hometown of Dizangue, Cameroon, where he developed a passion for the beautiful game. He started his professional career with Canon Yaoundé and Tonnerre Yaoundé in his native country before making a move to Spain in 1982 to join RCD Espanyol.
It was with Espanyol that NKono truly made a name for himself, playing over 300 official matches and becoming an integral part of the team. His impressive performances earned him the prestigious France Football African Footballer of the Year award in 1979 and 1982.
NKono's success with Espanyol led to his selection for the Cameroon national team, with which he participated in three World Cups (1982, 1990, and 1994) and four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
During the 1982 and 1990 World Cups, NKono was the starting goalkeeper, helping his team reach the quarterfinals in the latter tournament. Although he was called up as a backup goalkeeper for the 1994 World Cup, he did not get to play.
After retiring from active football, NKono transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach to the Cameroon national team and goalkeeping coach at Espanyol.
NKono's contributions to the sport have been recognized, with him placing second in the IFFHS African Goalkeeper of the Century elections, behind Joseph-Antoine Bell. His legacy continues to inspire young goalkeepers, including countryman Carlos Kameni, whom he helped develop during his time as a goalkeeping coach at Espanyol.
Thomas NKono's remarkable career is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, he remained committed to his craft, earning him a place among the all-time greats of African football.
73 Years Old
A Cameroonian football legend who danced his way into the hearts of fans worldwide with his iconic goal celebrations at the 1990 World Cup, inspiring a generation of African players.
62 Years Old
A Cameroonian footballer and coach who played as a goalkeeper, known for his impressive career with several clubs and the Cameroonian national team, earning 104 caps.
47 Years Old
A Cameroonian professional footballer who played as a midfielder, known for his skills and achievements in the sport, including winning the African Cup of Nations.
47 Years Old
A Cameroonian professional footballer who played for several top-tier clubs, including Real Madrid and Chelsea, and won numerous titles, including two Champions League trophies.
