The Royal Army Women’s team claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Masar Al-Masry in the semi-final of the CAF Women’s Champions League, with late-game heroics sealing their place in the final.
The match, held on Tuesday evening, was marked by tense moments, missed opportunities, and thrilling late drama.
The Royal Army took an early lead in the 12th minute through a powerful header from Safaa Banouk.
Masar had a golden chance to equalize just six minutes later when they were awarded a penalty, but Burundian forward Sandrine Niyonkoro failed to convert, with the Royal Army goalkeeper making a crucial save.
Despite continued pressure from Masar in the second half, the Moroccan side held firm, and the game appeared destined to end with a narrow victory for the Royal Army.
However, the match took a sensational turn in stoppage time. At the 93rd minute, Masar was awarded another penalty after a VAR review.
Maya Ehab stepped up to take the shot but was denied by the Royal Army’s goalkeeper. The drama escalated when the referee, after consulting VAR, ruled that the penalty would be retaken due to a goalkeeper infringement.
Ehab capitalized on the second attempt in the 97th minute, finally equalizing for Masar and sending their supporters into a frenzy.
The joy was short-lived, as just two minutes later, Doha Al-Madani of the Royal Army delivered a stunning direct free-kick, clinching the victory and dashing Masar’s hopes of reaching the final.
The Royal Army Women, champions of the 2022 edition, now advance to their second final, aiming to reclaim their title.
For Masar, this semi-final marked another milestone in their impressive journey, having risen to prominence since the Right to Dream group took ownership in 2021.
Despite the loss, Masar’s achievements remain significant, including winning consecutive domestic titles and dominating the Egyptian Women’s Premier League.
Their squad, composed of rising talents and experienced players, has firmly established itself as a force in African women’s football.
The Royal Army Women now await their final opponent, seeking to add another chapter to their storied history in African football.
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