Foresters FC started the season poorly, suffering a 3-0 defeat to PTL Bazar Brothers. They were desperate to bounce back with a win in this away game on Praslin Island against Cote d’Or, who had begun their campaign with a victory over Northern Dynamo the previous week. The stakes were high for both teams, making for an exciting matchday.
The game opened brightly for Foresters, who took the lead in the 6th minute. Colin Bibi delivered a fine shot from distance that found the back of the net, setting the tone for the match. Just seven minutes later, Dean Mothe took a corner kick that was perfectly executed. Brandon Labrosse was on hand to convert the opportunity, doubling Foresters’ lead to 2-0. This strong start gave Foresters the confidence they needed, while Cote d’Or struggled to find their rhythm.
In the second half, Cote d’Or’s coach James Barra made some tactical adjustments, aiming to turn the match around. His changes paid off when Ravo scored in the 54th minute, narrowing the deficit to 2-1 and igniting hope among the home supporters. This goal shifted the momentum slightly, and Cote d’Or began to press for an equaliser.
The last 30 minutes of the match were fiercely contested, with both teams battling for control. Three yellow cards were issued during this period: Archille Esther and Benoit Marie for Cote d’Or, and Hermane Rakotovao for Foresters. Despite the heightened tension, neither team could find the back of the net again, leaving the score at 2-1.
Foresters secured the vital three points, which was crucial for their confidence after a tough start to the season. The win not only provided a much-needed boost but also showcased their potential for the upcoming matches.
Cote d’Or Starting XI:
1 Jean-Paul Jack Lesperance
6 Benoit Stenio Steve Marie
4 Stephan Michael Morgan
7 Andrianjato Hasina Ramaroson
10 Elio Alexis Mbolatovo
11 Saverio Safino Tsiahoua
13 Archille Esther
14 Cliff Andrew Ian Cesar
19 Ervais Antoine Cesar
21 Heriniaina Norbertin Ravonasandratra
24 Jonah Freedom Randriamisaina
Substitutes:
2 Laurent Michel Lesperance
3 Charif Said Antoine
5 Marcus Rose
8 Andy Pierre Brioche
9 Ian Vel
15 Dave Rudolf Jean-Marc Brioche
16 Neddy Stephen Lesperance
17 Shakim Telemaque
23 Danio Valentin
Foresters FC Starting XI:
1 Kitson Cecile
15 Jean Tigana
3 Laurence Leon
6 Adrian Dario Hoareau
7 Brandon Labrosse
8 Colin Ron Bibi
10 Dean Stephane Hughe Mothe
11 Makhan Jean-Luc Bristol Cissoko
12 Kazeem Adeyeri
17 Brandon Molle
22 Samuel Adrienne
Substitutes:
9 Gerard Basset
13 Travis Rolly Quatre
14 Dilhanne Dodin
18 Alex Jimmy Bijoux
19 Hermane Rakotovao
20 Fihobiana Jose Tiana Ralaimoria
23 Dwayne Joshua Ally
25 Riano Denis
