Nigerian champions Edo Queens delivered a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies to secure a semi-final spot in the CAF Women’s Champions League on Saturday, 16 November, at Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca.
Despite needing only a draw to progress, Edo Queens found themselves trailing in the 24th minute after Melinda Kgadiete scored for Sundowns, assisted by Karabo Dlamini. However, the West African champions showcased remarkable resilience. In the 95th minute, Peace Essien equalized with a crucial goal, reigniting their campaign. Just six minutes later, Mary Mamudu sealed the stunning comeback, pouncing on a defensive error to fire in the winner from close range.
The victory ensured Edo Queens topped Group B with 7 points and a +4 goal difference, maintaining an unbeaten record in the group stage. They began their campaign with a 3-0 win over Central Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) and followed up with a crucial draw against Masar. Their persistent attacking display against Sundowns proved decisive, with two late goals dismantling the South Africans’ usually reliable defense.
Masar, debutants from Egypt, also advanced to the semi-finals after defeating CBE Ladies 2-1 in their final group match, finishing second with 7 points but an inferior goal difference (+2). Masar’s Sandrine Niyonkuru scored the opener in the 24th minute, while Yassmine Zezo added a second in the 85th minute. CBE managed a late consolation goal through Senaf Wakuma.
Defending champions Sundowns, who had reached the final in 2022, failed to progress beyond the group stage for the first time in the competition’s history, finishing third with 3 points. CBE ended their campaign winless, with an -8 goal difference.
Edo Queens have now become the first Nigerian club to remain unbeaten in the group stage of the CAF Women’s Champions League. They face TP Mazembe in the semi-finals on Tuesday, 19 November, aiming to become the first Nigerian team to reach the final and claim continental glory.
Sources
- https://www.cafonline.com/caf-womens-champions-league/news/edo-queens-send-defending-champions-sundowns-packing-fc-masar-make-history/#:~:text=In%20a%20dramatic%20twist%20of,but%20eliminate%20the%20defending%20champions.
- https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/caf-wcl-edo-queens-edge-sundowns-face-tp-mazembe-in-semis/%3famp
