Edo Queens’ remarkable journey in the CAF Women’s Champions League came to an end on Tuesday night as they suffered a 3-1 defeat to TP Mazembe in the tournament’s first semi-final in Casablanca.
The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) champions started strong, taking the lead through a goal by Emem Essien. However, TP Mazembe mounted a fierce comeback, equalizing through a header from Merveille Nanguji in the dying minutes of regular time.
The game extended into extra time, where Edo Queens’ fortunes worsened. Super Falcons defender Comfort Folorunso scored an own goal in the 101st minute, and Marlene Yav Kasaj sealed the victory for Mazembe with a penalty, ending Edo Queens’ hopes of reaching the final.
Despite the heartbreak, Edo Queens left a significant mark on the tournament, particularly with their stunning victory over defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns Women earlier in the competition.
The Nigerian champions will now focus on securing a third-place finish when they face Masr SC in the bronze-medal match. A third-place victory comes with a $350,000 prize (approximately N586 million), while the tournament winners will take home $600,000.
Edo Queens’ journey, though cut short, showcased their resilience and potential on the continental stage, solidifying their reputation as one of Africa’s rising football powerhouses.
