Edo Queens have made a historic leap in women’s football by becoming the second Nigerian club to reach the CAF Women’s Champions League semi-finals. In a thrilling match at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, the Nigerian champions overturned a 1-0 deficit to defeat defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 and secure their spot in the final four.
Sundowns took the lead early with a goal from Melinda Kgadiete in the 24th minute. However, Edo Queens showcased their resilience, with Peace Essien dramatically equalizing in stoppage time (95th minute) before Mary Mamudu capitalized on a defensive error to score the winner just six minutes later.
With the victory, Edo Queens finished top of Group B with seven points from three matches, recording two wins and a draw, alongside an impressive goal difference of +4. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Nigerian women’s football, following Bayelsa Queens’ history-making semi-final appearance in 2022.
Edo Queens will now face TP Mazembe in the semi-finals, aiming to become the first Nigerian side to reach the final of the prestigious tournament. Their unbeaten run in the group stage, which included a commanding 3-0 victory over Central Bank of Ethiopia Ladies and a draw with Egypt’s Masar, has set them up as serious contenders.
Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns’ early exit from the tournament as defending champions is a historic first, marking the first time the title holders have failed to progress past the group stage. The South African side, who reached the final in 2022 and the semi-finals in 2023, will have to regroup for the next campaign.
Edo Queens’ stunning performance has not only elevated their standing but also further solidified Nigeria’s growing dominance in African women’s football.
