Colombe Triumphs in First-Ever Cameroon Cup Victory Over Aigle Royal

The match began with a flurry of action, and it didn’t take long for Colombe to break the deadlock. Just nine minutes into the game, Colombe’s forward, Duamel Boris Ekoto, found the back of the net with a close-range header, assisted by a clever pass from Ivan Mvondo Olama. The early strike set the tone for the first half, as Colombe pressed forward with intensity, leaving Aigle struggling to find their rhythm.

Despite having several opportunities to double their lead, Colombe was repeatedly denied by Aigle’s resilient goalkeeper. Meanwhile, Aigle fought back and pushed for an equalizer, resorting to long-range efforts that were either saved by Colombe’s in-form goalkeeper, Idrissou Nfor Finia, or missed the target.

The second half saw both teams making tactical changes, but Colombe remained composed, maintaining their lead. Aigle ramped up the pressure in the closing stages of the match, but their efforts were in vain as Nfor Idrissou pulled off a series of crucial saves to protect Colombe’s advantage.

At the final whistle, jubilant scenes erupted in the stadium as Colombe’s players and fans celebrated their historic victory. The win not only ends a decades-long title drought but also qualifies Colombe Sportive for the 2024 CAF Confederation Cup, marking their debut in continental football.

Colombe’s remarkable journey to the final was marked by an impressive record. The team won all six of their Cup matches without conceding a single goal. Their campaign began with a dominant 3-0 victory over Eding Sport, followed by convincing wins against Avion Academy and defending champions Fovu Club of Baham. They continued their fine form with a 1-0 triumph over Panther of Nde in the quarterfinals and a comprehensive 3-0 win over Isles of Hope Soccer Academy in the semifinals.

Ivan Mvondo, Colombe’s standout midfielder, was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the final and awarded a 2 million FCFA cheque from MTN Cameroon for his outstanding performances throughout the tournament.

Speaking after the match, Colombe coach Richard Towa praised his team’s discipline and execution. “Aigle was a tough opponent, but my players followed the game plan, and that made the difference,” Towa said.

The final, which marked the end of the 2023/2024 sports season, was presided over by Prime Minister Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, who represented President Paul Biya. Several government officials, religious and traditional authorities, and other dignitaries attended the event. The winners from 54 sports federations also received their trophies from the Prime Minister during the ceremony.

For Colombe Sportive, this historic achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter, as they prepare to take on the challenge of representing Cameroon on the continental stage next year.