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Unveiling Tomorrow's Cameroon Through Today's News

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January 30, 2025 – Cameroon

In early January 2025, the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot) asked clubs in the professional league to submit their preferred home stadiums for the ongoing Elite One season. However, the implementation of this policy has led to controversy, particularly regarding the Yong Sport Academy (Yosa) of Bamenda and PWD Bamenda.

Despite the poor condition of the Yong Francis Arena, Fecafoot allowed it to host Yong Sport's match against AS Fortuna de Mfou on Sunday, January 26, 2025. Yosa emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, securing their first victory of the 2024/2025 season. Fans were hopeful that playing at home would provide a significant advantage, boosting their chances of further wins.

The idea also resonated with PWD Bamenda, which has struggled to win matches. "Maybe playing home matches will change things," said PWD’s assistant coach, Max Makolle, on Monday in Douala, after their 1-1 draw against Astres FC of Douala.

Security Concerns Lead to Match Relocations

However, while this initial trial provided a morale boost for the teams, it was far from a success for the league organizers and the overall image of the Elite One championship.

Ahead of the 10th matchday on Sunday, Yosa’s and PWD’s upcoming opponents, Colombe du Sud and Aigle Royal du Moungo, formally requested the Transitional Council for Professional Football (CTFP) to move the matches away from Bamenda, citing security, fairness, and regulatory concerns.

"Colombe approached the federation to request a match postponement, citing security reasons," explained a club official from Colombe du Sud. Meanwhile, Aigle Royal du Moungo justified its request on multiple grounds:

  • Security concerns: The club claimed that match officials and visiting teams face intimidation from the home crowd, which prevents referees from officiating fairly and creates an unsafe environment for players.
  • Fairness issues: “Spectators threaten referees, who can no longer officiate matches without fear of retaliation. Players are also playing under pressure, which takes away from the integrity of the game,” Aigle Royal’s executives wrote.
  • Regulatory compliance: The club also cited the poor condition of the Yong Francis Arena, arguing that it does not meet any official standards—lacking grass, barriers, and standard pitch dimensions.

Fans Express Outrage Over Match Relocation

Based on these concerns, the CTFP decided to relocate the matches initially scheduled at Yong Francis Arena. However, this decision has provoked anger and frustration among supporters of Yosa and PWD.

In response, the management of both clubs issued statements urging fans to remain calm, while reassuring them that renovation work is underway to improve Bamenda’s sports infrastructure.

For now, the relocation of matches remains a major disappointment for local supporters, who see home advantage as crucial to their teams' success. However, with growing concerns over security and venue conditions, the question remains: Will Bamenda’s teams get another chance to play at home this season?