Vie (verb)

1. Compete eagerly with someone in order to do or achieve something.
2. Strive to gain or win something.

Origin:

Middle english: from old french vier "strive, dispute", from latin vicare "compete", from vicus "place, row".

Examples:

1. The two companies were vying for the same contract.
2. The two politicians were vying for the presidency.
3. The two athletes were vying for the gold medal.
4. The two schools were vying for the championship.
5. The two countries were vying for influence in the region.