National Interpools 2026: Draw Sets Stage for Elite Two Promotion Battle

By Angu Lesley

Football writer Kick442.com – Cameroon

The draw for the 2026 National Interpools has officially set the stage for the final battle for promotion to the MTN Elite Two Championship, with 12 clubs learning their opponents ahead of the tournament’s kick-off on Sunday, July 19.

This year’s competition features 10 regional league champions alongside two clubs from the Elite Two relegation play-offs—Union Sportive of Douala and Bafmeng United FA—who are both fighting to retain their places in Cameroon’s second-tier professional league.

The clubs have been drawn into two groups of six.

Group A

* Bafmeng United FA (North West)

* AS Sokoto

* Girondins Athletics

* Centre Region champions (to be determined)

* Rizière de Noun

* Mankon United (North West)

Group B

* Union Sportive of Douala (Littoral)

* Elecsport of Limbe

* Épervier d’Ebolowa

* Mintack FC du Septentrion

* Hemle FC (Littoral)

* KAFACK Sports Academy

One of the headline fixtures on the opening day will see Bafmeng United FA take on Mankon United in an all-North West derby. The two clubs know each other well and their meeting is expected to provide an early indication of who could emerge as favourites in Group A.

Group B also features a regional rivalry, with Union Sportive of Douala facing fellow Littoral representatives Hemle FC during the competition as both clubs seek to secure one of the promotion places.

The identity of the Centre Region representative is yet to be confirmed. The region’s championship will be decided this weekend when Mintack of Haut-Sanaga face Carrière FC in the regional final, with the winners completing the 12-team field for the National Interpools.

The Interpools remain the final hurdle for clubs aspiring to reach the professional ranks. While the 10 regional champions are aiming to earn promotion to Elite Two, Bafmeng United FA and Union Sportive of Douala are looking to avoid relegation after being sent into the play-offs.

With regional pride, promotion and professional status all at stake, the 2026 National Interpools promise another thrilling chapter in Cameroonian football, beginning on Sunday, July 19, with the North West derby between Bafmeng United FA and Mankon United among the standout opening fixtures.