The aspirations of Nigeria’s lone representatives, Edo Queens, to reach the finals of the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League came to an abrupt halt after a gripping 3-1 extra-time defeat by TP Mazembe at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco, on Wednesday. The Congolese outfit demonstrated tenacity in a thrilling encounter, rallying back from a one-goal deficit to clinch their place in the finals.
Lineups
Edo Queens started with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Esther Moses, Esther Inyang, and Florence Ijamilusi, midfielders Peace Essien, Mary Mamudu, and Olise Chioma, and forwards Emem Essien, Jerry Balala, and Joy Eze.
TP Mazembe lined up with goalkeeper Aisha Mutombo, defenders Merveille Nanguji, Grace Mbombo, and Chantal Mbala, midfielders Esther Luvumbu, Sarah Ilunga, and Patricia Mbuyi, and forwards Grace Kanda, Merveille Kanku, and Linda Mbuyi.
How the Match Unfolded
The match began with both teams displaying cautious tactics, resulting in a goalless first half. Edo Queens broke the deadlock in the 65th minute when Emem Essien delivered a spectacular strike, her third goal of the tournament. She deftly looped the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper to send their supporters into raptures.
However, the jubilation was short-lived as Merveille Nanguji leveled for TP Mazembe with a powerful header from a corner in the dying embers of regular time, sending the match into extra time at 1-1.
Edo Queens struggled to find their rhythm as extra time unfolded, conceding two more goals. TP Mazembe’s Grace Kanda scored in the 105th minute, and Linda Mbuyi sealed the victory with a goal in the 118th minute, marking a heartbreaking conclusion to Edo Queens’ pursuit of continental success.
Post-Match Analysis
Edo Queens’ defeat highlighted several issues within the team. Despite a strong performance from Emem Essien, a standout player throughout the tournament, the team lacked cohesion and struggled to maintain its lead. The defensive lapses, particularly during set-pieces, were glaring and ultimately cost them the match. The inability to capitalize on their early lead and the lack of a cohesive strategy in extra time were major factors responsible for their defeat.
TP Mazembe, on the other hand, showed they were resilient and tactically disciplined. Their ability to return from a goal down to win in extra time eventually demonstrated their mental strength and toughness. The Congolese side’s effective use of set-pieces and ability to exploit Edo Queens’ defensive weaknesses were crucial to their success.
What the Coaches Said
Edo Queens’ coach, Moses Aduku, was disappointed but nevertheless praised his team’s effort, saying, “We fought hard, but unfortunately, we couldn’t hold on to our lead. We will learn from this experience and come back stronger.“
TP Mazembe’s coach, Sarah Ilunga, commended her team’s resilience: “The girls showed great character and determination. Coming back from a goal down to win in extra time is a testament to their hard work and spirit.“
Player of the Match
Flora Marta was named the Player of the Match for her crucial equalizer and overall defensive performance.
What Next
Edo Queens will now prepare to meet the defeated team from the semi-final clash between AS FAR of Morocco and Egypt’s Masar in a third-place playoff. A win in this match could earn them a substantial reward of $350,000 (over N587 million), offering a silver lining to their campaign. The team must regroup, address their defensive issues, and develop a more cohesive strategy to secure victory in the third-place match.
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