Edo Queens’ CAF Women’s Champions League Journey Ends in Heartbreaking Extra-Time Loss

Edo Queens, Nigeria’s sole representatives at the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, were eliminated from the competition after a painful 3-1 extra-time defeat to TP Mazembe in their semifinal clash on Tuesday.

The Nigerian side had enjoyed a commendable run in the tournament, finishing top of Group B despite being drawn into a challenging group alongside Masar Women (Egypt), Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), and CBE Women (Ethiopia). Edo Queens started their campaign with a dominant 3-0 victory over CBE, followed by a goalless draw with Masar. They then shocked the defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, with a 3-1 win in their final group game, securing first place in the group.

In the semifinal, Edo Queens faced DR Congo’s TP Mazembe at the Stade Larbi Zaouli. Although slightly underdogs heading into the match, Edo Queens took the lead in the 65th minute when Emem Essien converted a pass from Paulina Ali.

However, with the match nearing its end, TP Mazembe’s Merveille Kanjinga struck in the 90th minute to level the score, forcing the game into extra time.

The extra period saw TP Mazembe take control. In the 101st minute, Edo Queens’ Comfort Folorunsho inadvertently scored an own goal, putting TP Mazembe ahead. Just four minutes later, Marlene Yav Kasaj sealed the win for the DR Congo side, converting a penalty in the 105th minute to make it 3-1.

With this loss, Edo Queens now face the loser of the other semifinal between FAR Rabat and Masar in the third-place play-off. Despite their exit, Edo Queens will receive NGN 500 million in prize money, with the potential to earn an additional NGN 100 million if they win the third-place match.

While their journey in the tournament has come to an end, Edo Queens can be proud of their strong performance, having shown resilience and skill against some of Africa’s top clubs.