The win at home saw second-half strikes from Onana (54') and Bide (66') propel Colombe to a formidable 37 points after 16 matches, extending their lead at the league's summit.
The result leaves Colombe sitting comfortably seven points ahead of second-placed Gazelle (who have a game in hand) and a significant ten points clear of Cotonsport, dealing a major blow to the latter's championship aspirations.
Colombe entered the encounter boasting the league's meanest defence, and they reinforced that reputation with another stellar performance. Despite Cotonsport's renowned attacking prowess, they found themselves consistently thwarted by a disciplined and well-organized Colombe backline. The visitors enjoyed periods of possession but struggled to penetrate the resolute defence and were met by a composed goalkeeping display whenever they threatened.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides feeling each other out. However, the deadlock was broken nine minutes after the restart when Onana found the back of the net in the 54th minute, igniting the home supporters. The momentum firmly shifted in Colombe's favour, and just twelve minutes later, Bide doubled their advantage in the 66th minute, putting the game beyond Cotonsport's reach.
Despite their best efforts in the remaining minutes, Cotonsport could not find a way past Colombe's unwavering defence. The match highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the two sides, with Colombe demonstrating clinical efficiency while Cotonsport struggled to convert opportunities – a recurring theme in their campaign.
This crucial victory sees Colombe edge closer to potentially lifting their first-ever MTN Elite One title. Their extended lead puts significant pressure on their closest challengers, Gazelle, who must capitalize on their game in hand to keep pace. For Cotonsport, the task ahead is now considerable, as they trail by ten points with only twelve games remaining.
Colombe's triumph not only strengthens their position at the top but also solidifies their status as the team to beat this season. Their blend of defensive resilience and clinical finishing is proving to be a winning formula.
Colombe will aim to continue their dominant run in their upcoming fixture, while Cotonsport will need to regroup quickly to maintain their hopes of securing a CAF Champions League qualification spot. Matchday 16 has delivered a significant shift in the MTN Elite One landscape, setting the stage for an enthralling final stretch of the season in Cameroon's premier football league.
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- Bobe Akwavi By
- Match Report
MTN Elite One: Matchday 16 – Colombe Soars Higher with 2-0 Victory Over Cotonsport
Yaoundé, Cameroon – Colombe Sportive delivered a powerful statement of intent in the MTN Elite One title race, securing a commanding 2-0 victory over rivals Cotonsport in a highly anticipated Matchday 16 clash.
