TP Mazembe pulled a stunning upset in the African Women’s Champions League final on Saturday, defeating tournament hosts FAR Rabat 1-0 to claim their first continental title in El Jadida, Morocco.
Both teams initially met in the group stage on November 12, when FAR Rabat ran out convincing 3-1 winners to secure top spot in Group A.
However, in the final, the Moroccan side struggled to threaten TP Mazembe, managing only a single shot on target throughout the match. It was the Ravens instead who showed more desire and purpose, driving forward with goal-scoring intent at every opportunity.
This ambition was duly rewarded in the 10th minute when VAR confirmed that Kgalebane Mohlakoana’s follow-up shot had struck the arm of Rabat’s captain, Aziza Rabbah, en route to goal.
28-year-old midfielder Marlène Kasaj stepped up to take the penalty, displaying supreme composure to convert and silence the home crowd.
As the game progressed, the Moroccans controlled 67 per cent of possession but failed to capitalise on their dominance and create clear-cut chances. In contrast, TP Mazembe peppered their goal with 22 shots (6 on target) and would have doubled their lead if Merveille Kanjinga had not fired wide from only seven yards out.
Ultimately, her miss was inconsequential – as the Congolese side held firm to secure victory and lift their first Champions League trophy.
Following Saturday’s win, TP Mazembe received a cheque for $600,000 (₦999,996,400), while the runners-up, FAR Rabat, took home $400,000 (₦666,597,600).
Egypt’s FC Masar claimed $350,000 (₦583,496,900) after defeating Nigeria’s Edo Queens in the third-place match, while the West African side earned $300,000 (₦499,499,200) for reaching the semi-finals in their competition debut.
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