Fury v Ngannou: fever pitch in Cameroon
In Cameroon, excitement is at its peak ahead of Francis Ngannou's fight with Tyson Fury, scheduled for this Saturday.
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Excitement is reaching unprecedented heights across Cameroon ahead of the eagerly awaited fight between UFC champion Francis Ngannou and British boxer Tyson Fury. Ngannou's supporters are rallying across the country to show their backing, and the streets of Yaoundé and Douala have turned into a full-blown fan festival.
Optimism spreads through the streets
In Yaoundé, in the university district of Ngoa-Ekelle, an ice cream parlour has become the fans' meeting point, where more than a hundred young people plan to gather to watch the fight live. The atmosphere is electric, with Cameroonian flags and giant posters of Ngannou adorning the walls. Marie Ngo, a 22-year-old student, can't wait for Saturday and to see the "Predator" win.
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"Francis is a true hero to us, and we know he will give everything in the ring," she says, convinced. "It's a historic moment for Cameroon, and we are proud to support him. " Tomorrow, a fan caravan is planned through the streets of Yaoundé to celebrate the occasion. The streets are expected to be flooded with fans wearing T-shirts and holding banners in support of Ngannou, in an unrivalled show of solidarity.
Victory or nothing
In Douala, the streets are also coming alive as the fight approaches. Polo shirts and caps bearing Francis Ngannou's image are selling like hot cakes. Hervé Tafone, a trader, is thrilled: "It's incredible to see how passionate people are about this fight. The polo shirts and caps are selling so well that we're struggling a bit to keep up with demand. "
Optimism also reigns among the supporters, who believe Ngannou will beat his opponent. Adéline Ekoumba, a 35-year-old fan, can't see any result other than a Ngannou win. "Francis Ngannou has incredible power, and he is a role model for Cameroonian youth. He is going to take Fury down, I'm certain of it. It's not even a debate", she insisted. Francis Ngannou's fans are gathering enthusiastically, ready to back their champion in what promises to be an unforgettable sporting event.
Arthur WANDJI