CNPS eulogises football legend, Emmanuel Kundé.

The late Emmanuel Gérôme Kundé

The National Social Insurance Fund, CNPS, has paid a heartfelt tribute to football legend, Emmanuel Gérôme Kundé. Affectionately known as Benetti, the football veteran passed away on May 16, 2025, aged 68. 



Kundé, a towering figure in Cameroonian football and a cherished member of the CNPS family, left behind an indelible mark on the nation’s sporting history and within the institution he served.

In a social media outing, CNPS revealed that many may not know the special bond Emmanuel Kundé shared with the CNPS. 

More than just a celebrated athlete, they said Kunde was a dedicated employee of the institution. 

He played for Prévoyance FC in corporate, veteran, and eventually, the national first division championships. 

His presence as a CNPS staff member was deeply valued, and the institution proudly participated in his jubilee celebration on August 11, 2013, at the Yaounde Omnisports Stadium.

“In this time of immense sorrow, the Director General and the entire CNPS staff extend their deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Emmanuel Kundé's family, his loved ones, and the entire Cameroonian football community. A Lion never truly dies,” CNPS wrote on social media.

Benetti's death has cast a somber shadow over the world of football and across Cameroon. 

Born on July 15, 1956, Kundé's illustrious career, which began in 1973, saw him evolve from a defensive midfielder to a formidable central defender under the tutelage of Coach Claude Leroy. 

His playing days spanned various clubs, including Mbankomo Club, Prévoyance FC of Yaoundé, and ultimately Olympic de Mvolyé, where he concluded his active career in 1992.

Kundé’s impact on Cameroonian sports was truly transformative. As a celebrated member of the Indomitable Lions, he proudly wore the national jersey 127 times, netting 25 goals. 

His trophy cabinet boasted two Africa Cup of Nations titles in 1984 and 1988.

He was also a finalist in 1986 and etched his name into World Cup history by scoring in the 1990 quarter-finals against England. 

Beyond his exceptional skills, Kundé was revered for his legendary composure, unwavering patriotism, and profound humility.

 

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3454 of Saturday May 24, 2025

 

 

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