By Boris Esono
In a fiery encounter at the Limbe Centenary Stadium on Saturday, ISOHSA finally recorded their first victory over Djiko FC in the MTN Elite 2 football championship. Following their 1-0 win at home, ISOHSA’s triumph was fueled by determination and home support.
The encounter counted for matchday four of the Elite 2 championship. This victory marks a significant milestone for the Peoples Royal Elephant, who struggled against Djiko FC last season. In their debut season in Elite 2, ISOHSA failed to defeat Djiko in 2 games and could only pick a draw in one of the games.
Last season, ISOHSA was held to a 0-0 draw at home, before succumbing 3-2 away in the second leg. But Saturday’s encounter finally saw the Limbe-based side rise to the occasion and claim their maiden victory over Djiko.
Djiko starting XI in the 0-1 defeat against ISOHSA
The game kicked off with both teams displaying high intensity and determination. ISOHSA, eager to capitalize on their home advantage, pressed aggressively in the opening minutes, forcing Djiko FC onto the back foot.
Midfielder Brice Ashu had the first opportunity for ISOHSA but could not convert. Elwood Banter had the next opportunity for ISOHSA but was well-defended by goalkeeper Sodea Sadjo.
Despite ISOHSA’s early pressure in the first half, Djiko FC proved resilient, maintaining a compact defensive structure that limited their opponents’ clear-cut chances. The game ended goalless at halftime.
The second half saw ISOHSA come out with a renewed potency, determined to end their winless run against a tough Djiko FC side. The first meaningful chance for Djiko came in the 52nd minute through Dominique Mapouna but his effort went above the crossbar.
However, Djiko were left with 10 men following a red card shown to Poro Junior.
ISOHSA’s persistence finally paid off in the 64th minute as substitute Brandon Babo was judged by the referee to have been brought down inside the Djiko penalty area. Up stepped Brice Ashu to score the game’s only goal in the 66th minute and handed ISOHSA all three points in the game.
The final moments of the game saw Djiko FC push for an equalizing goal but were hampered by the side being one man down and a solid defence display from ISOHSA. As the referee blew the final whistle, there were scenes of joy and celebration, as ISOHSA marked a historic win over their adversaries.
The win takes ISOHSA to second position in Group A with 7 points, 2 wins and a draw. Meantime, Djiko FC remains bottom with 0 points.
ISOHSA head coach Mbock Maput said: “It’s not been easy for us. I mean, the two games at home. Because of our opponents, they delayed the games at times. And they know that our playing style is to always keep the ball, look for spaces, organize and penetrate. So, they always come to play, a defensive game to frustrate our system of play.”
“But at least my guys, it’s just that they lost a lot of goal opportunities today. Well, I would say that the guys will pick up. At times in football, it happens like that. You see a team missing a lot of goal opportunities. Because we’ve been working on that, but it didn’t come.”
Joseph Mbock Maput added: “Yes, I’m happy for that. I’m happy for that. You know, last year they gave us a very difficult time. But this time around, at least we’ve upgraded and we came with a victory.”
Henry Mbi Enow, a Djiko FC player said: “It was not a bad performance, but we keep working for a better tomorrow. We know they are a very good opponent. We just came to give our best. I cannot say our ambitions this season because I’m not in management. But as a player, I know we try to give our best.”
What’s Next?
The Peoples Royal Elephant of ISOHSA will look to build on this historic win over Djiko FC as they turn their attention to matchday 5 on January 11. The side will still be at home and this time will welcome Fovu Club of Baham to Limbe.
Meantime, Djiko FC will need to put the defeat behind them as they go in search of their first point and victory this season. Djiko FC will be away to Union Sportive of Abong-Mbang
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