The legendary football rivalry between two African neighbours, Nigeria and Cameroon, has reawakened the bond of love and the deep connections between the Bakassi region of Cross River and its neighbours, even in the Republic of Cameroons.
This happened weekend, in Ekpri Ikang area of Bakassi when a local match between selected local players from surrounding communities, and some Cameroonians, played a friendly football match as part of the third edition of the Bakassi International Fish Festival.
The match brought together young talents from both countries, speaking volumes of the shared heritage and camaraderie of the region.
Skills, passion and sportsmanship were at play between the rivals as both wanted to put to rest the argument about football superiority.
Nigeria scored first. This ignited cheers from the home crowd as Cameroon responded with an equaliser just before halftime.
The decisive moment came in the final minutes of the match when Nigeria’s striker delivered a stunning goal, securing a 2-1 victory for the home team.
The spectators were elated and there was a celebration by both teams which engendered friendship and love.
