TP Mazembe edged out AS FAR 1-0 to claim their maiden African Women’s Champions League title. The decisive goal came courtesy of Marlene Kasaj’s 10th-minute penalty, which proved to be the difference-maker in the tightly contested match.
The Ravens from DR Congo made a dream start to the final, with Kgalebane Mohlakoana’s early shot blocked before her follow-up effort was deflected into the arms of AS FAR keeper Khadija Er-Rmichi. However, replays showed that the ball had struck the arm of AS FAR’s captain Aziza Rabbah, prompting a lengthy VAR check that ultimately resulted in a penalty being awarded.
Kasaj stepped up to take the penalty and sent the ball past Er-Rmichi’s dive, securing a crucial lead for TP Mazembe. The Ravens then spurned a glorious opportunity to double their advantage, with Merveille Kanjinga firing wide from seven yards out.
Despite being the favored team, AS FAR struggled to impose themselves on the game. The Moroccans rarely threatened in the second half, with TP Mazembe looking more likely to extend their lead. Ngoy’s misjudgment of a cross with nine minutes left presented a half-chance for AS FAR, but the ball would not drop to Doha El Madani, and the chance swiftly passed.
TP Mazembe’s 1-0 victory marked a historic moment for the club, as they became the third winners of the African Women’s Champions League. The Ravens picked up a cheque for $600,000, while AS FAR received $400,000 as runners-up.
