Charles "Kiki" Antenen (3 November 1929 – 20 May 2000) was a Swiss footballer who played as a forward. Born in La Chaux-de-Fonds, he became a central figure for his hometown club and is remembered for his scoring ability, longevity and contributions to Swiss domestic football. After retiring as a player he remained a recognised figure in local sporting circles.
Club career
Antenen spent the bulk of his club career with La Chaux-de-Fonds, where he won multiple trophies and helped the team to its most successful era. During his time with the club he collected three Swiss league titles and six Swiss Cup victories, a haul that established La Chaux-de-Fonds as a leading Swiss side in that period. He also spent one season away from the club with Lausanne Sports in 1952–53 before returning to his home club.
International career
On the international stage Antenen represented the Switzerland national team and was selected for three FIFA World Cup squads. He was part of Switzerland's squads for the 1950 World Cup, the 1954 World Cup held in Switzerland, and the 1962 World Cup. His presence across three tournaments over a 12-year span illustrates both his personal consistency and the regard in which he was held by national team selectors.
Style of play and impact
Nicknamed "Kiki", Antenen played as a forward and was noted for intelligent movement, finishing and experience in domestic competition. While detailed statistical records from his era are limited compared with the modern game, contemporary accounts and club records highlight his role as a decisive player in cup competitions and key league matches. He is often cited in histories of Swiss football as part of the generation that raised the profile of the domestic game after World War II.
Honours and legacy
- Three Swiss league titles (with La Chaux-de-Fonds)
- Six Swiss Cup wins (with La Chaux-de-Fonds)
Antenen's achievements at club level and his repeated selection for World Cup squads contributed to a lasting legacy in his hometown and in Swiss football circles. Local fans and club historians continue to recognise his role in one of the most successful periods in La Chaux-de-Fonds' history.
Charles Antenen died on 20 May 2000 in Les Bayards, leaving behind a reputation as one of Switzerland's notable post-war forwards. For further information and archival material on his career, consult contemporary match reports and club histories accessible through dedicated football archives and resources here and via national football records here.
Selected references and external entries on his clubs and tournaments can be found through club pages and tournament summaries: Lausanne Sports, club history pages and general tournament overviews for the 1950, 1954 and 1962 World Cups.