Elite One’s playoff competition in Douala is nearing its conclusion, with the season’s champion to be determined in two days. Currently, Young Sports Academy (Yosa) from Bamenda leads the pack with 10 points, largely due to the efforts of captain and top scorer John Bosco Nchindo.

Hot on Yosa’s heels are Coton Sport de Garoua, the defending champions seeking their 19th title this season, and Victoria United (Opopo), both with 9 points. Coton Sport’s experience in the competition, led by Yves Dooh Moukoko, the defensive boss and captain of the senior national team, makes them formidable opponents. Opopo, known for their superior style of play in Elite One, relies on the midfield prowess of Nathan Douala and the goal-scoring efficiency of Richmond Nji.

Colombe du Dja-et-Lobo, the top club in the southern region, is still in the running with 8 points. Despite a slow start to the season, the club has rebounded under the leadership of coach Richard Towa, who recently returned from a stint in Asia.

In contrast, Canon Sportif de Yaoundé and Dynamo de Douala, who started the season strongly, have fallen behind in the playoffs. Canon, currently last in the competition with 2 points, has suffered from poor coaching decisions, according to observers. Dynamo has lost its edge since the departure of Léonel Ateba, who was selected for the last Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire and subsequently signed with USM Alger in Algeria.

Michel Ange Nga