The curtain rises on the MTN Elite One 2026 season this Saturday evening in Bafang, where Unisport de Bafang host Aigle Royal de la Menoua in the opening fixture of Match Day One. Kick-off is set for 6:00 PM at the Bafang Municipal Stadium, as two newly promoted sides begin their journey in Cameroons top flight with a fiercely anticipated West derby.
Beyond the excitement of the opener, the build-up to the match has been marked by humility, mutual respect and measured ambition from both camps during Fridays pre-match press conference.
For Aigle Royal, the return to Elite One represents the culmination of years of work. Head coach Koung Anicet was keen to underline that the clubs presence at this level is built on collective effort rather than individual glory.
The Aigle coach struck a realistic tone about his teams status, insisting that promotion does not immediately place them on the same footing as established Elite One sides.
That sense of realism is echoed within the squad. Team captain Ccile Meyeke made it clear that the clubs primary mission this season is survival, while calling on supporters to play their part from the stands.
On the other side, Unisport de Bafang approach the opener with confidence but caution. Head coach Laurent Djam acknowledged the quality and balance of Aigle Royal, highlighting their recent performances beyond the domestic league.
The match will be officiated by Martin Ze Mengatta, a newly promoted FIFA referee, assisted by Dimitri Pande and Olinga Fandjieng, with Yannick Fodouop serving as fourth official another symbol of fresh beginnings on a night that celebrates new faces in Cameroons elite football scene.
As the Elite One season gets underway, Saturdays encounter is about more than three points. It is about setting the tone, measuring progress, and proving readiness for life at the highest level. With pride, preparation and regional rivalry all in play, Unisport vs Aigle Menoua promises to deliver a compelling opening chapter to the 2026 campaign.
