Rostand Mbai Puts Unisport Atop MTN Elite One table

By Angu Lesley

Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon

Newly promoted Unisport du Haut-Nkam climbed to the summit of the MTN Elite One standings thanks to a late strike from veteran forward Junior Rostand Mbai, edging Gazelle FA de Garoua 1-0 in a tense first-versus-second clash at the Bafang Municipal Stadium.

The encounter carried major significance for both sides’ ambitions this season. Gazelle arrived as early pace-setters, while Unisport, guided by coach Laurent George Djam, were determined to demonstrate that their promotion was the start of something serious. Victory would not only deliver three crucial points but also reshape the title race narrative.

The match unfolded as a tight tactical battle, with both teams cautious in possession and compact defensively. Gazelle sought to control tempo through structured build-up play, while the hosts relied on patience and home support. Clear-cut chances were rare, and for long stretches, neither goalkeeper was seriously tested.

Gazelle’s Marius Kada, in particular, will rue several missed opportunities as his team pushed forward but failed to convert key chances that could have changed the outcome.

As the contest edged toward its closing stages, Laurent George Djam turned to experience, introducing Rostand Mbai from the bench. The seasoned striker, a familiar figure in Cameroonian football with previous spells at Astres de Douala, Dragon Club de Yaoundé, Coton Sport de Garoua and Colombe du Dja et Lobo, once claimed the league’s top scorer award during the 2018–2019 season.

In the 84th minute, Rostand Mbai capitalised on a defensive lapse to calmly slot home the decisive goal, sending the home crowd into celebration. Gazelle pushed desperately for an equaliser but were unable to breach Unisport’s disciplined defence.

The result lifts Unisport to the top of the MTN Elite One table. For a newly promoted side, defeating one of the league’s most in-form teams in a direct summit clash signals clear intent — Unisport are not merely competing; they are contending.