In 2023, the 28th edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, which was also celebrating its 50th anniversary, took place amidst ongoing insecurity in the English-speaking regions of Cameroon.
Unfortunately, the event was marred by several explosions resulting in casualties among athletes, spectators, and others who required hospitalization.
Moreover, the race presented some challenges, including unfamiliarity with the area, according to Emmanuel Motomby Mbome, the President of the Cameroon Athletic Federation. Some athletes lost track, resulting in missed opportunities for podium positions.
Additionally, anonymous athletes articulated concerns about the logging process, which they felt was handled too close to the race day, not allowing for proper rest and preparation.
‘ The problem is that they only lodge use on the eve of the Race’
Nevertheless, the race persevered and 32-year-old Adamu Issa Bouba emerged victorious in the male category, while Adamou Issa Bouba triumphed in the female category.
Looki
ng ahead, the 2024 edition of the race is expected to be an improvement over the previous year, with a focus on security being a top priority.
The Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Professor Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, has assured athletes that all necessary precautions have been taken to ensure the security of participants and their belongings.
Source: Cameroon News Agency
The Black Queens of Ghana arrived in Ndola, Zambia, on Saturday for their second leg Olympic qualifier against Zambia on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.
The Black Queens suffered a 1-0 defeat in the first leg of the penultimate qualifying encounter at the Accra Sports Stadium against their Zambian counterparts, who are among the best women’s teams on the continent.
Rachael Kundananji’s well-taken first-half strike was enough to secure the win for the Zambians, who would be firm favourites to progress to the next round.
However, the Black Queens, who have recorded some massive away wins in the qualifiers, would be aiming to replicate the same performances to upset the odds.
The winner of this tie would progress to the fourth and final round of qualifiers, where they would meet the winner of the Morocco and Tunisia qualifying encounter.
The Black Queens, who have never qualified for the Olympics, face a stern test to overcome the Zambia hurdle but have the quality on their side to overturn the deficit.
Sou
rce: Ghana News Agency
Friday’s highly anticipated match between Cameroon and Nigeria lived up to expectations, delivering a captivating display of football from both teams. The clash between these two football powerhouses showcased a combination of skill, strategy, and determination, providing football enthusiasts with a spectacle worth the anticipation.
It also demonstrated that in spite of their recent poor performances, Cameroon has jealously guarded its drop of greatness and fighting spirit in the women’s game.The intensity of the match reflected the historical rivalry between the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon and the Super Falcons of Nigeria. Fans witnessed a contest that went beyond individual talents, with both teams demonstrating a collective spirit, resilience, and a hunger for victory.
Tactically, the coaches from both sides played a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the game. Cameroonian coach Jean Baptiste Bisseck surprised football enthusiasts by fielding an unusual lineup with a completely experimental at
tack that comprised Flora Kameni, Lamine Mana and Nkénké Julie Nina. This strategic move added an element of unpredictability to the Cameroonian game and challenged the experienced Nigerian team. Nigeria, equipped with experienced players like Asisat Oshoala, showcased their prowess and adaptability on the field, but on several occasions they were stopped by the resilient Cameroonians.
Defensively, the Cameroonian backline effectively contained renowned players, exemplified by their ability to put Oshoala under lock and key. Eliane Mambolambo and Magué Mariane Inès proved a much improved pair, and goalkeeper Cathy Bihina simply inspired confidence with her brilliant goalkeeping. The tactical battle extended to the midfield, with Cameroon’s coach strategically covering spaces, preventing the Nigerians from expressing themselves comfortably.
Creative midfielder Charlène Meyong’s impeccable ball distribution to the Cameroonian final third was a highlight as the Indomitable Lionesses demonstrated exceptional en
durance management, visibly reserving energy for the return leg in Abuja.
Noteworthy performances from players like Lamine Mana and Aboudi Onguene highlighted the blend of youthful talent and veteran experience within the Cameroonian squad. Lamine Mana in particular, emerged as a standout player, proving herself as the future of the team with breathtaking incursions from the right.
Veteran striker Aboudi Onguene also proved she still has a lot to offer, as her introduction in the second half brought added options, allowing Cameroon to mount more pressure on Nigeria from the corridor. The goalless draw adds an extra layer of excitement and uncertainty, setting the stage for a thrilling return leg in Abuja, Nigeria on Monday. With nothing decided in the first leg encounter, both teams head into the next match with qualification still wide open. Coach Bisseck’s determination to pursue a ticket for Paris, regardless of the opponent’s strengths, adds to the anticipation surrounding the upcoming clash.
For the I
ndomitable Lionesses to secure qualification in the return leg match in Nigeria, adopting a strategy focused on minimizing pressure and eliminating an inferiority complex is crucial. Playing as a cohesive unit, emphasizing their chances, and strategically exploiting the wings – where their most successful opportunities were generated in the first leg in Douala – can be pivotal for their success. This approach aims to create a solid defensive block while capitalizing on offensive strengths for a well-rounded performance.
Source: Cameroon News Agency