AFCON 2023 - Kibonge: "I'm here to encourage our children to do what we did 50 years ago"
AFCON 2023 - Joseph Mafu Kibonge: "I'm here to encourage our children to do what we did 50 years ago"
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Joseph Mafu Kibonge, you are now a legend of DR Congo football. Are you proud of your playing career?
I did my country proud by winning the Africa Cup of Nations twice, in 1968 and 1974. I also played at the World Cup. I also won the African Cup with AS Vita Club.
What was the secret to success back then?
It was a golden era. Everyone was afraid of the name Zaire. Everyone respected us. And we were given the resources we needed.
You are accompanying the DR Congo team in Côte d'Ivoire, where they are taking part in the 34th edition of AFCON. What is your relationship with these young players?
I'm here to encourage our children to do what we did 50 years ago. We wish them good luck because the whole country is counting on them. They must win the trophy.
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DR Congo knocked out Egypt in the round of 16, 50 years after their last win over the Egyptians in an AFCON finals. You were part of the team that beat Egypt on their own turf in 1974. What can that victory mean for today's young players?
Matches like that are tough, and above all you couldn't be afraid of Egypt, and the young players weren't. I'm very proud of them. This win will give them even more confidence for the rest of the competition.
DR Congo face Guinea in the quarter-final. How do you see that game?
It will be a tricky match, like every game at this AFCON, but with determination the Leopards can win. They must stay relaxed and calm.
How far can DR Congo go in this competition?
We can go far. Despite the draws we've had, we've reached the quarter-finals, and that means a lot. With the players we have and the good atmosphere in the dressing room, there is hope of a good result. We can win the Cup.
There have been too many surprises at this AFCON, with favourites knocked out. What do you put that down to?
It simply means there are no more minnows in Africa. Every country is looking to develop its football, and that's a good thing for our continent.
Jonathan Masiala