By Awambeng Fuh
Journalist,kivk442.com-Cameroon
Defending champions Colombe du Dja were held to a dramatic 2–2 draw by Aigle Royal du Moungo on Match Day Five of the MTN Elite One championship at the Ngoa-Ekelle Stadium in Yaoundé.
Coach Richard Towa’s Colombe made a flying start. Luc Bide struck twice in quick succession, finding the net in the 28th and 32nd minutes to hand the home side a comfortable 2–0 lead before halftime. With captain Randy Kwalar marshalling the side from the midfield, the champions looked in control and on course for a crucial victory.
But Aigle Royal, coached by Patrice Fotso, showed resilience in the second half. Jacques Nga Essoue pulled one back in the 72nd minute to revive the contest before Samuel Ango Ebelle stunned the hosts with an 87th-minute equaliser, completing a spirited comeback.
The result leaves Colombe with just five points from five matches, placing them ninth in the current standings — a stark contrast to the dominant form that saw them crowned champions last season. The sluggish start sees them trailing early pace-setters PWD Bamenda, who lead the table with 12 points after five games, while Dynamo Douala and Gazelle sit just behind on 10 points each.
For coach Richard Towa and his captain Randy Kwalar, the pressure is mounting to quickly restore the consistency and defensive solidity that defined their title-winning campaign. Meanwhile, Patrice Fotso’s Aigle Royal will take pride in their fighting spirit, securing a valuable away point that could prove significant as the season unfolds.
With the MTN Elite One race beginning to take shape, Colombe’s early struggles signal that this year’s championship battle may be far more competitive than the one they conquered last term.
French 
English