AS FAR make history with third CAF Women’s Champions League title

AS FAR claimed a record third CAF Women’s Champions League title after beating Mamelodi Sundowns 3-1 in Sunday’s final at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia, Egypt.

The Moroccan side, coached by Hicham El Idrissi, took control of the final through Imane Touriss, who found the bottom-left corner of the South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini’s net in the 23rd minute.

Mamelodi Sundowns responded quickly, however, drawing level just two minutes later after AS FAR’s defence was punished for a lack of concentration.

The Rabat-based side regained the lead before half-time. Hiba Yousssoufi, aged 17, converted a pass from captain Ghizlane Chebbak in the 37th minute to put AS FAR 2-1 ahead.

Touriss completed her double in the second half to secure the trophy. She added the third goal in the 77th minute, finishing from Fatima Tagnaout’s assist.

The victory means AS FAR retain the title they won last year, making them the first team to win the competition in two successive editions.

It is also their third triumph in the tournament, following their first final victory in 2022. They defeated Mamelodi Sundowns 4-0 in that final, and no other club has won the competition more times.

Mamelodi Sundowns remain on two titles after their defeat in Ismailia.

AS FAR’s individual success continued in the tournament awards. Chebbak was named the competition’s best player, while Touriss finished as the leading goalscorer. Khadija Er-Rmichi was selected as the best goalkeeper.

Mamelodi Sundowns received the consolation of being named the tournament’s fair-play team.