By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
The Striking Eagles of the US Embassy in Cameroon defeated Association Sportive Des Veterans of Foumban 1-0 in a friendly match staged in Yaoundé on November 2nd. This was the return leg of the friendly series, with the first leg resulting in a 3-1 loss for the Striking Eagles in Foumban.
Both teams approached the match with determination, with the visiting veterans aiming to maintain their dominance from the first leg, and the Striking Eagles seeking to overturn the deficit.
The first half was a tense affair, with the visiting team dominating possession but failing to capitalize on their chances. The score remained 0-0 at halftime.
The second half saw increased intensity from both sides, with the Striking Eagles breaking the deadlock and nearly doubling their lead. The visiting team fought back but were unable to equalize, and the match ended with a 1-0 victory for the Striking Eagles. The lone goal for the Striking Eagles was scored by Mbinkar Emmanuel Shiylajing
Striking Eagles Vice President Ernest Mbang expressed satisfaction with the win, highlighting the team’s determination to overcome the first-leg defeat.
“We’re thrilled with this victory, especially after their dominant 3-1 win in the first leg. Overcoming that defeat is incredibly satisfying,” Ernest Mbang said
He acknowledged the visiting team’s strong performance and the tactical adjustments made by the Striking Eagles in the second half. Mbang also emphasized the importance of friendly matches in fostering relationships and promoting fair play, as well as the team’s focus on upcoming matches, including a crucial encounter against Victory Club in Douala.
“As Striking Eagles, we prioritize the Ambassador’s values which are Respect, Integrity, Community, and Efficiency (RICE). Friendly matches are opportunities to build relationships through fair play and create new connections,” he said
“Concerning the upcoming match against Victory Club, we’re excited to face the Cameroonian champions in Douala. They defeated us earlier, so we’ve been preparing diligently for this rematch in Douala.”
Association Sportive Des Veterans of Foumban coach Prosper Sakah Ayuni praised the friendly atmosphere of the match and the positive impact of football on bringing people together.
“Football is magical. Though we didn’t win, a defeat like this one always make us stronger. But the true victory lies in the fair play and friendship we shared during the match,” Sakah Ayuni said.
He acknowledged the Striking Eagles’ strength but emphasized the unpredictable nature of the sport. Ayuni highlighted the value of defeat in motivating the team and the importance of fair play in football.
“The match was a testimony to the power of football to unite,” he said. “We’re using this platform to instill these values in our youth. As for the result, the Striking Eagles are a formidable opponent, but not stronger than us. That’s the beautiful unpredictability of the sport.”
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