Held at the majestic Yaoundé Conference Centre, the ceremony was nothing short of a royal coronation for Cameroon’s footballing elite.

But beyond the golden trophies and the thunderous applause, this was a night to celebrate the journey—the battles fought on the pitch, the sweat and sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of greatness that earned each nominee their rightful place under the spotlight.

For the winners, immortality awaits. For the nominees, their names are forever etched among the finest. And for the young dreamers watching from afar, this was proof that hard work and dedication lead to football’s greatest rewards.

The King of Cameroonian Football: Yong Nchang Nchindo John Bosco

The Ballon d’Or winner, Yong Nchang Nchindo John Bosco of Yong Sports Academy of Bamenda, is no stranger to the relentless pursuit of greatness. His dazzling displays, technical brilliance, and ability to command the game made him an undisputed choice for this year’s ultimate prize.

But this was no easy race. Nathan Doualla (Victoria United FC of Limbe) and Yvan Mvondo Olama (Colombe Sportive du Dja et Lobo) pushed the limits all season, delivering performances that made fans gasp and defenders crumble.

Their efforts did not go unnoticed. They remain icons of Cameroonian football, and their Ballon d'Or chase was nothing short of legendary.

Gravity Defying Goalkeepers: Idrissou Nfor Finia & Biya Cathy

For every striker’s moment of glory, there is a goalkeeper who defies gravity to deny them. And in 2024, Idrissou Nfor Finia of Colombe Sportive du Dja et Lobo proved himself as Cameroon’s No. 1, claiming the Best Goalkeeper award in the men’s category.

But let’s not forget the other warriors who stood between the posts:

Kerrido Haschou (Stade Renard de Melong) – A shot-stopper whose reflexes stunned even the best strikers.
Marcelin Mbahbi (Gazelle Football Académie de Garoua) – A fearless guardian of the net, always rising to the occasion.

On the women’s side, Biya Cathy (Éclair FF de Sa’a) proved why she’s a wall of steel, walking away with the Best Goalkeeper award. But standing alongside her were two incredible challengers:

Glory Asonyu Shey (Ita Mbong FC Nkambe) – A name that strikers feared all season.
Marthe Yolande Ongmahan (Lekié Football Filles) – An agile and commanding presence between the sticks.

Each of these guardians of the goal left their mark, ensuring their names remain legendary in Cameroonian football.

The Goal-Scoring Royalty: Jules Armand Kooh Bioumla & Alice Flora Kameni Djientieu

Football is about goals, and Jules Armand Kooh Bioumla of Les Astres de Douala delivered them in style, bagging 22 goals on his way to becoming MTN Elite One’s top scorer.

On the women’s side, Alice Flora Kameni Djientieu of FC Ebolowa was a force of nature, smashing 26 goals and proving that great strikers don’t wait—they create.

These two were the undisputed goal machines, but let’s not forget those who gave them a run for their money. Every defender who faced them knew they had to bring their absolute best.

Revelations of the Year: The Future is Now

Every season brings new stars, and this year, the football world was introduced to some breathtaking young talents.

In the men’s category, Jude Enow Enow (Victoria United FC of Limbe) stormed into the league like a seasoned veteran, earning the Revelation of the Season award. But he was in elite company with:

Issa Fadyl Ousmanou (Coton Sport FC de Garoua) – A rising midfield general.
Mael Fernandez Monyebe (Gazelle Football Académie de Garoua) – A player with speed, skill, and a hunger for greatness.

Meanwhile, in the women’s game, Tiwa Melong Lys Fraîche (Lekié Football Filles) proved that the future is female, claiming the Revelation of the Year award. Her fellow nominees were equally impressive:

 Lys Fraîche Tiwa Melong (Lekié Football Filles) – A name that will be remembered for years to come.
 Heutchou Ernestine (Éclair FF de Sa’a) – A player whose determination and technique made her stand out.
Antoinette Shey Afanyu (Ita Mbong FC Nkambe) – A young star destined for greatness.

Their rise is a message to every young hopeful watching: Your time will come. Keep working. Keep dreaming.

The Masters Behind the Magic: David Pagou & Ndzana Ngono Stephane

Behind every great team is a mastermind who turns tactics into triumphs.

David Pagou (Stade Renard de Melong) was the tactician of the season, earning the Best Coach award. Under his leadership, Stade Renard became one of the most formidable teams in the league.

Meanwhile, in the women’s game, Ndzana Ngono Stephane (Lekié Filles Football Club) was crowned the Best Coach, proving that his football philosophy is one of champions.

Club of the Year: Colombe Sportive du Dja et Lobo & Lekié Football Club

The best teams aren’t just built on talent; they are built on unity, discipline, and heart.

In the men’s category, Colombe Sportive du Dja et Lobo reigned supreme as Club of the Year, a well-deserved honor for a team that displayed class and consistency all season.

On the women’s side, Lekié Football Club took home the same honor, proving that their dominance in women’s football is no accident—it’s destiny.

More Than Just Awards – A Night of Inspiration

The MTN Ballon d’Or 2024 was not just about winners. It was about the spirit of competition, the love for the game, and the dreams it inspires.

To the nominees who didn’t take home the trophy, you have already won in the hearts of fans. You have set a standard, written your names in history, and shown the next generation that greatness is within reach.

To the fans, your passion fuels this game. Your cheers from the stands, your unwavering support—you are the heartbeat of football.

To the young dreamers, watching and wondering if you’ll ever be here—keep going. Today’s winners were once just like you, chasing a dream.

And to the stars of the night, you are now immortalized in Cameroonian football history. Wear your crowns proudly, for you have earned them.

The Journey Continues

As the curtains close on MTN Ballon d’Or 2024, one question remains: Who will rise next year?

The chase for greatness never stops. The beautiful game lives on. Stay tuned to EliteOne.cm for all the latest news, updates, and exclusive interviews from the heart of Cameroonian football.