Malick Ebwelle Ndape, popularly known by his nicknames Malick Goal or Drogba, began his football journey in 1999 when he made his debut with Little Foot FC Tiko. His early career was marked by significant experiences as he later joined prestigious clubs such as Yong Sports Academy in Bamenda and Acada Sports in Limbe. With Tiko United, he showcased his skills in the Elite One championship and played a crucial role in the team’s impressive triumphs. He helped the team clinch the South West Regional League title, emerge champions at the National Interpools in Ebolowa, and ultimately succeed in the Cameroon top-tier league.
In 2008, Malick expanded his horizons by signing with the Cyprus First Division club Turk Ocak Kulubu. Two years later, in 2010, he transitioned to Thailand, where he joined the Division One team, Chula United. His tenure in Thai football continued as he moved to BBCU in 2012, where his contributions were instrumental in the team’s remarkable achievement of winning the championship and securing promotion to the Thai Premier League.
In 2013, Malick switched to Ayutthaya FC, a Division 2 club, playing a key role in guiding the team to qualification for the Division 1 championship and the Premier League within a short span of two years. He then signed with Ubonratchathani FC, another prominent Division 2 team, before spending a season with Hougang United FC in Singapore. His journey continued in Thailand with Pattani FC, where he displayed his exceptional talent.
Malick’s playing career came to an end in 2016, a decision he attributed to a knee injury and the natural progression of age, humorously noting that he retired at the age of 29. He moved from Thailand to Germany before finally relocating to the US.
ACHIEVEMENTS
Reflecting on his numerous accomplishments, Malick proudly stated, “I have had many achievements, including being named the Best Player at all the clubs I have represented, consistently being the top goal scorer, and winning various championships throughout my career. I was also voted the best Anglophone Cameroonian player in Thailand during my time there, having played for some of the top clubs.”
BEST MOMENTS
One of his most memorable moments occurred when he received a life-changing opportunity from the late Henry Njalla Quan. While casually playing “corner field” football in Tiko after the league had concluded, an agent was sent by Njalla to meet Malick. The agent approached him with a small monetary gift (FCFA 10,000) for transport and an invitation to Limbe to discuss a potential contract. When Malick arrived at Njalla’s office, he was presented with an impressive contract offer that included FCFA 1.6 million, accommodations, a weekly food stipend of FCFA 6,000, and additional match bonuses.
He shared, “My best moment was when the late Henry Njalla Quan sent his agent to get me while I was playing ‘corner field’ football in Tiko after the league had ended. The agent came to me and said, ‘Malick, Pa Njalla wants to see you in his office on Monday at 10 AM in Limbe.’ He gave me FCFA 10,000 for transport (laughs). On Monday, I arrived in Limbe on time. Pa Njalla walked in, invited me into his office, and said, ‘My son, I want you to play for Acada Sports of Limbe. Here is FCFA 1.6 million. I will give you a house, FCFA 6,000 every Saturday for food, you will not pay for water and electricity, and you have match bonuses. I want to build a formidable team, and I want you to be part of it.’ That moment transformed my mindset and career, pushing me to focus more rigorously on my football.” He embraced the opportunity to train alongside experienced players like Ache Ebenezer, also known as Jango.
To aspiring footballers, Malick imparts invaluable advice: “Never stop working hard; stay focused, pray, and don’t give up. Surround yourself with people who genuinely love, support, and care about you and your career. Above all, WORK HARD.”
However, he also spoke candidly about the challenges faced during his career. “Having a support system is crucial for any player. I struggled without anyone to back me up, and it was indeed very challenging,” he noted.
Now, Malick is channeling his passion for football into coaching. He has obtained his coaching diploma in the United States and is dedicated to mentoring young footballers and children in high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. “I use my social media ( Facebook ) to support , inspire , advise and coach young footballers.” He also serves as a coach at an academy in Atlanta while maintaining a full-time job with a gas company. In addition to his professional pursuits, Malick enjoys a fulfilling family life; he is married and a proud father of three children, balancing his sports career and family commitments with grace and dedication.
By Basil K. Mbuye
Mary Ndinge Lyonga is a marketing assistant at Eagle Wings and Spice Located at Mutengene, Tiko Road.
She was once a Volunteer at the Tiko Council Community Radio for a period of 3 months under the Leadership of Mme Sarah Nkongho as the Station Manager. She is a graduate from the department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Faculty of Social and Management Science, University of Buea.