Ampem Darkoa secures dramatic 3-2 win in Cairo after procedural error annuls Edo Queens penalty shootout victory.
Nigeria's Edo Queens suffered a devastating blow to their continental ambitions on Thursday, October 29, in Cairo, Egypt. The Nigerian side lost a rescheduled WAFU Zone B qualifying final to Ghana's Ampem Darkoa Ladies by a score of 3-2.
The dramatic defeat shattered hopes of competing in the 2026 CAF Women's Champions League. What makes the loss particularly painful is that Edo Queens initially celebrated winning the regional title weeks prior.
The reversal follows a successful protest by the Ghanaian club regarding a refereeing error during the original fixture, according to information published by sports247.
The controversial Ouagadougou final and initial Edo Queens celebration
The qualification dispute dragged on for nearly two months after the original final on September 5 in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. That initial match ended in a 2-2 draw after regulation time between Edo Queens and their opponents.
Following regulation time, the Nigerian side won the ensuing penalty shootout 4-1. This seemingly secured their historic place at Africa's premier women's club competition before protests emerged.
CAF upholds protest over missing extra time
Ampem Darkoa immediately lodged a formal protest regarding the decision to proceed directly to penalties. Match officials failed to play the mandatory 30 minutes of extra time specified in the competition regulations.
The Confederation of African Football upheld the protest on September 26 and annulled the shootout result. The CAF Appeal Board subsequently reinforced that crucial decision on October 16.
Cairo showdown decides the 2026 CAF Women Champions League ticket
Both teams were ordered to reconvene in Cairo to play only the outstanding 30 minutes, beginning with the score locked at 2-2. Ampem Darkoa made their second opportunity count during this brief period.
Scoring the decisive goal, the Ghanaian champions claimed a 3-2 victory to secure the coveted WAFU Zone B qualification ticket. They will now join AS FAR, USFAS Bamako, and Kawempe Muslim Ladies in Group B.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Edo Queens lose their CAF Champions League spot?
Edo Queens lost their spot because CAF ordered a replay of the final 30 minutes of extra time after a successful protest by Ampem Darkoa regarding a refereeing error in the initial September match.
Who won the rescheduled WAFU Zone B qualifying final?
Ghanaian champions Ampem Darkoa Ladies won the rescheduled match 3-2 in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday, October 29.
When and where will the 2026 CAF Women's Champions League take place?
The tournament is scheduled to take place in Egypt from November 1 to 15, featuring top clubs from across the continent.
