Yahoo Sports TP Mazembe claim historic first CAF Champions League title as underdogs
DR Congo champions Tout Puissant Mazembe caused an upset as they defeated Moroccan side AS FAR by a single goal in the CAF Women’s Champions League final. It’s the first time in the clubs history that the trophy has travelled back to DR Congo.
TP Mazembe were awarded a penalty in the tenth minute of the game. The spot-kick was dispatched for mark the only goal of the game. Lubumbashi native Marlene Kasaj calmly placed the penalty into the left corner to take the lead and eventually claim the trophy.
AS FAR were outlined by many as the favourites for the title after their success in 2022. The destination for the final fixture also being on Moroccan soil should’ve given the side a distinct advantage.
TP Mazembe have won the domestic DR Congo title three years consecutively. The club’s leadership will look at this continental success as the next natural payoff in their development.
TP Mazembe will be thankful for the prize money as they build on their success. The Badiangwena will now receive the equivalent of £480,000, after the prize money was increased compared to previous editions of the tournament. Meanwhile, runners-up AS FAR will receive in the region of £320,000.
The history of the CAF Women’s Champions League
The CAF Women’s Champions League has seen four different winners in its short history since its inaugural season in 2020. South African outfit Mamelodi Sundowns are the only team to have won the competition twice in 2021 and 2023.
Over the last few years, the Sundowns have been hailed as trailblazers in African women’s football. It’s healthy to see clubs from other nations such as Morocco and DR Congo begin to share that mantle.
