El Jadida, Morocco:- DR Congo’s TP Mazembe Saturday claimed the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League title with a stunning 1-0 victory over hosts AS FAR at El Jadida’s Stade Ben Ahmed El Abdi in Morocco. The triumph marked the first-ever CAF Women’s Champions League title for the DR Congo side.
Mazembe, whose 2022 campaign ended in the group stage, showed immense resilience, determination, and strategic depth to topple the former champions and maintain their 100% defensive record throughout the match.
The match’s only goal came early, within the first 10 minutes, as Marlene Kasaj confidently converted a penalty to give TP Mazembe a lead they would never relinquish.
Despite being stunned by the early concession, AS FAR responded with relentless pressure, launching wave after wave of attacks in search of an equalizer. Yet, TP Mazembe’s defence remained resolute, with goalkeeper Emma Kasongo and her backline earning their stripes by holding firm.
AS FAR, who were looking to claim their second-ever title, were unyielding in their pursuit of a comeback. The crowd’s energy swelled as they urged their team on, but Mazembe’s disciplined defence and organized midfield thwarted every attempt.
Coming out strong after halftime, TP Mazembe even looked more dangerous in the second half, looking to kill off the game. However, AS FAR found their rhythm as the minutes wore on, only to be met by a resilient and well-drilled Mazembe defence.
When the final whistle blew, TP Mazembe’s players erupted in joy, celebrating the momentous occasion of being crowned Africa’s queen of club football. The 1-0 victory ensured Mazembe’s place in history as the latest champions of the coveted CAF Women’s Champions League trophy, an honor that comes with a $600,000 prize. Meanwhile, AS FAR, despite their valiant efforts, had to settle for the $400,000 awarded to the runners-up.
In addition to the team accolades, individual performers throughout the tournament were recognized for their outstanding contributions.
AS FAR’s Sanaa Mssoudy was named the Best Player of the Tournament. The midfielder’s exceptional skill, vision, and leadership were pivotal in AS FAR’s run to the final. Mssoudy scored two goals and assisted in many others, showcasing her pace, composure, and football IQ throughout the competition.
A new star shone brightly in the tournament as 19-year-old Doha El Madani of AS FAR garnered widespread attention for her performances. The teenage forward was instrumental in her team’s journey to the final, contributing six goals. El Madani’s clinical finishing, positioning, and footballing intelligence earned her a place as one of the most promising young talents in African women’s football.
Though FC Masar did not make it to the final, their goalkeeper Habiba Emad earned well-deserved recognition for her performances throughout the tournament.
Emad’s incredible reflexes and calmness under pressure ensured her team’s competitiveness against the continent’s best, earning her the title of Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
The Fair Play Award was also given to FC Masar, acknowledging their exemplary sportsmanship and discipline. The Egyptian side’s commitment to respect on and off the field set a high standard for the competition, demonstrating that values beyond the game are equally important in African football.
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