Thomas N'Kono’s legendary career has made him an inspiring figure for African goalkeepers and one of the most respected and beloved shot-stoppers for all in Spanish, African and world football.
He even inspired a living legend like Gianluigi Buffon, who watched on aged 12 at the 1990 World Cup in Italy and who found an idol to follow.
The two have a great relationship these days.
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Sharing an anecdote about the Italian, N'Kono recalled: “I remember when Buffon was starting out at Parma and was at the 1998 World Cup in France.
“I came across Buffon with Patrick M'Boma and he told me ‘this is the future goalkeeper of the Italian national team’.