Herentals Queens secure dominant victory over FC Ongos in CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers

Herentals Queens made an impressive start in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers, securing a decisive 3-1 victory against Namibia’s FC Ongos in the opening match of the COSAFA zone qualifying tournament. The reigning champions of Zimbabwe dominated the game from the outset, leaving little room for their opponents to mount a comeback.

The match, held on Thursday, showcased the strength and cohesion of Herentals Queens, who controlled the tempo from the first whistle.

Just 20 minutes into the game, Maudy Mafuruse broke the deadlock, giving the Zimbabwean side an early lead that set the tone for the rest of the match.

Building on their early advantage, Herentals quickly doubled their lead in the 29th minute when Egness Tumbare converted a penalty, putting them firmly in control.

The Queens entered halftime with a comfortable 2-0 cushion, reflecting their dominance on the field.

Despite efforts from FC Ongos to regroup and challenge in the second half, the Namibian side struggled to break through Herentals’ solid defense.

Any hopes of a comeback were dashed in the 70th minute when Melody Chikore scored Herentals’ third goal, effectively sealing the victory and putting the game out of reach for FC Ongos.

FC Ongos did manage to find the back of the net late in the match, with Ndapewa Kateta scoring a consolation goal in the dying moments.

However, it was too little, too late, as Herentals Queens had already ensured their place at the top of Group A with this commanding performance.

The victory puts Herentals Queens in a strong position as they await the outcome of the other Group A fixture between the University of Western Cape from South Africa and Zambia’s Green Buffaloes.

With this win, the Zimbabwean champions have sent a clear message to their competitors that they are a force to be reckoned with in the quest for a place in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League.

Herentals’ strong start in the tournament highlights their ambition to progress to the final phase of the CAF Women’s Champions League.

The team’s blend of tactical discipline, clinical finishing, and defensive solidity was evident throughout the match, and they will be looking to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures.

As the COSAFA qualifying tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Herentals Queens to see if they can maintain their winning form and secure a coveted spot in the continental competition.