FC Gazelle 0–0 Coton Sport: Top-of-the-Table Clash Ends Stalemate

In a highly anticipated Cameroon Elite One fixture, FC Gazelle held reigning champions Coton Sport to a goalless draw at the Stade Omnisports de Garoua on 10 June 2026. The result was a fair reflection of a tactical chess match where defences reigned supreme.

Match Overview

FC Gazelle entered the game as underdogs but imposed themselves early, pressing Coton Sport high up the pitch. The visitors, known for their possession-based approach, struggled to find rhythm. The best chance of the first half fell to Gazelle winger Emmanuel N'Dame, whose curling effort was pushed wide by Coton goalkeeper Idriss Kameni.

Key Moments

• 18' – Coton Sport’s star striker, Vincent Aboubakar Jr., had a goal ruled out for a marginal offside.
• 41' – Gazelle captain Paulin Essomba hit the crossbar with a powerful free-kick from 25 yards.
• 63' – Coton Sport dominated a five-minute spell, with two shots blocked inside the box.
• 79' – A late corner for Gazelle caused panic, but Kameni punched clear under pressure.

Tactical Battle

FC Gazelle set up in a 5-4-1, aiming to nullify Coton Sport’s wide attackers. The plan worked perfectly, with the back three of Rodrigue Mbah, Joseph Djonkep, and Olivier Mvondo repelling everything thrown at them. Coton Sport lacked the cutting edge without their injured playmaker, and Gazelle’s counter-attacks, though rare, carried real threat.

Standout Players

Idriss Kameni (Coton Sport) – The goalkeeper’s reflexes kept Coton in the game, notably tipping N'Dame’s shot wide.
Rodrigue Mbah (FC Gazelle) – A rock at the heart of defence, winning every header and making numerous clearances.

League Context

The draw sees FC Gazelle move to 28 points, staying 4th in the Cameroon Elite One, while Coton Sport remain 2nd on 32 points, two behind leaders Canon Yaoundé. This result keeps the title race wide open.