On July 13, 2026, the Bertoua Departmental Stadium witnessed an intense match between two northern Cameroonian clubs vying for a spot in the round of 16, with Gazelle FA ultimately emerging victorious in the penalty shootout.
The match began with Hamid Papantigui scoring for Mintack du Septentrion in the fourth minute, but Boukar Sanda equalized for Gazelle FA in the eighth minute. The back-and-forth continued, with René Emmanuel giving Mintack the lead again in the 24th minute, only for Marcel Onobiono to tie the score at 2-2 by the end of the first half.
The two teams, hailing from the same region, delivered a thrilling performance where local rivalry merged with the pursuit of a ticket to the decisive phases. Supporters, donning their team's colors, followed every pass with bated breath, aware that each action could alter the course of the match.
As the regular time ended in a draw, the teams resorting to a penalty shootout, where Gazelle FA's experience paid off, converting four shots to Mintack's three. This display of mental solidity confirmed the club's reputation as a pillar of the Elite One.
The victory opens the door to the round of 16, where Gazelle FA will now focus on the upcoming inter-pool matches. For the supporters, this win brings a breath of hope, reinforcing their sense of belonging to a club capable of withstanding pressure and rising among the country's top teams.
Beyond the result, this match highlights the vibrancy of football in northern Cameroon, where clubs compete not only for victory but also for the emergence of a foundation of skills and passion that can nourish national football. Gazelle FA's performance reminds us that tactical rigor and mental preparation are decisive assets in knockout competitions.
The upcoming challenges promise to be just as demanding. Gazelle FA will face opponents with varied strategies while maintaining the cohesion that has brought them this far. Supporters eagerly await the next chapter in this adventure, hoping the club will continue to fly the flag of the North and inspire a new generation of Cameroonian footballers.
