The Nigerians came from behind to earn a 2-1 victory with two extra time goals to secure their place in the semi-finals.
In a stunning turnaround, Edo Queens, champions of the Nigeria Women Professional Football League, overcame the reigning African Women Champions League winners, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa, 2-1, to claim a semifinal spot in an electrifying contest.
The team’s thrilling comeback was completed by Emem Essien’s 95th-minute goal and Mary Mamudu’s 101st-minute winner, subsequent to their notable group stage performance with two victories and one draw, showcasing exceptional skill and steadfast commitment.
After a 24th minute goal by Melinda Kgadiete thanks to a Karabo Dlamini assist, Sundowns held the slender lead until the dying moments of the match before Emem Essien’s equaliser in the referee’s added time saw the South African’s title hopes dashed.
The nail was officially hammered in the defending champions’ coffin after Mary Mamudu pounced on some questionable defending from a set piece to fire the Nigerians into the lead and seal an unforgettable victory over the defending champions in the last seconds of added time.
Edo Queens finished top in Group B with seven points ahead of FC Masar who also had seven points.
Their semifinal clash will come against TP Mazembe on Tuesday, 19 November, promises to be an electrifying encounter as Edo Queens will be looking to become the first Nigerian club to play in the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League.
This year’s CAF Women’s Champions League is taking place in Morocco.
Ahead of the game against Sundowns, the newly sworn in governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo had charged Edo Queens to return home with the cup.
The victory against the South Africans has now pushed Edo Queens closer to winning the trophy for the first time.
