By Macdella Eyong Bessong
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
Aigle Royal of Menoua announced their return to the MTN Elite One Championship with a well-deserved 2–0 victory over Unisport du Haut-Nkam, courtesy of a brace from Ymele Eden Creol.
Staged at the 2,500-capacity Bafang Municipal Stadium and played in the presence of FECAFOOT President Samuel Eto’o, regional and divisional authorities, partners, and several football stakeholders, the much-anticipated opening game of the 2025/26 MTN Elite One season lived up to expectations. Fans were treated to an electrifying encounter as both teams put in impressive performances.
Coach George Laurent Djam and his boys hosted rivals Aigle Royal of Menoua in an all-West derby — a clash between two top-tier newcomers — which ended with maximum points for the visiting side.
Aigle took the lead in the 74th minute when Eden Creol, assisted by Maurice Biboum, outsmarted goalkeeper Sone to silence the home crowd.
The visitors had another opportunity to widen the scoreline, but Creol’s effort was ruled out for offside in a questionable decision by referee Ze Mengatta.
However, deep into added time, another chance emerged and Eden Creol quickly took advantage of a defensive lapse to slot home his second goal past Sone.
Pange Lobe’s authority in midfield, showcased through his fine footwork and accurate passing, did not go unnoticed. The former Astres and Dynamo of Douala player capped his admirable performance by providing the pre-assist for Aigle’s opening goal, confirming his status as a midfield maestro.
🟡⚫ 𝐄𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐘𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐞 MVP
It is worth noting that both Eden Creol and Pange Lobe came off the bench in this encounter, yet delivered performances that will remain memorable for football fans, highlighting the impact of Aigle’s substitutes.
Coach George Laurent Djam of the “Flamboyant Boys” admitted during the pre-match press conference that he expected a difficult game against the visitors, noting that his team was not yet at full readiness. He nonetheless assured fans of tactical discipline, as the club’s stakeholders and home supporters anticipated a favorable result. Unfortunately for Unisport, the season began on a disappointing note.
On the other hand, Anicet Koung, newly appointed head coach of Aigle Royal of Menoua, stated that his priority is to secure the team’s place in Elite One before setting sights on the title. A former player of the West outfit, Koung returns ten years later as head coach in his first Elite One coaching role. For him, the task goes beyond survival — it is also about giving back to the club that gave him visibility during his playing career.
Unisport du Haut-Nkam returned to Elite One after seven years in the lower divisions, while Aigle Royal of Menoua gained promotion just a year after relegation, having emerged champions of Elite Two.
Both sides met during the promotion playoffs in Douala, where Aigle recorded a 2–1 victory.
This clash not only officially launched the new season but also signaled the beginning of the race for glory, as 13 teams aim to challenge reigning champions Colombe Sportive of the Dja and Lobo. Colombe begin their title defense against record champions Cotonsport of Garoua on Sunday, January 25.
English 
French