In a stunning turn of events in Casablanca on Saturday, November 16, Edo Queens ended Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies’ dreams of retaining their CAF Women’s Champions League title with a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory.
This decisive win not only propelled the Nigerian side into the semi-finals but also eliminated the reigning champions in dramatic fashion.
The match began in Sundowns’ favor, as Melinda Kgadiete found the back of the net in the 24th minute, capitalizing on a precise assist from Karabo Dlamini. Holding onto this narrow lead, the South African champions seemed poised to advance until the dying moments of the game, when Emem Essien’s last-gasp equalizer in stoppage time shattered their defenses and hopes.
With Edo Queens needing a victory to proceed, Essien’s goal was the lifeline they desperately sought. Yet, the decisive blow came moments later, deep into added time. Mary Mamudu seized upon a lapse in Sundowns’ defense from a set piece, firing the ball home to clinch an unforgettable victory and send the defending champions packing.
With AS FAR, the tournament hosts, and TP Mazembe having secured their semi-final spots on Friday, the victories of Edo Queens and FC Masar now set the stage for the next round of the competition, scheduled for Tuesday, November 19.
Edo Queens will kick off the semi-finals with a clash against TP Mazembe, followed by a North African showdown between hosts AS FAR and the history-making FC Masar. The stage is set for an epic battle to determine the final contenders for the CAF Women’s Champions League title.
