Morocco’s AS FAR on Tuesday secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Egypt’s FC Masar to reach the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League.
Touted as favorites, the defending Moroccan champions showed their determination to continue their journey. From the first whistle, they displayed sharp focus, leaving no room for chance.
Their intensity quickly paid off. In the 11th minute, Safa Banouk opened the scoring for the Rabat-based team.
However, a momentary lapse nearly cost them. Sandrine Niyonkuru, brought down in the box by Hajar Said, was awarded a penalty. But Moroccan goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi rose to the occasion, brilliantly denying the Burundian striker’s attempt.
AS FAR came close to extending their lead with several dangerous chances, but FC Masar’s defense held firm. Doha El Madani and Sanaa Mssoudy showed promise in attack but lacked precision in front of goal.
In the second half, the Moroccan side, led by the composed and experienced Nouhaila Benzina, managed the game well. Despite FC Masar’s persistent efforts, their attacks failed to break through AS FAR’s aggressive and compact defensive line. The Moroccan midfield dictated the tempo, thwarting Egyptian advances and creating counterattacking opportunities.
In stoppage time, Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyuwa, after consulting VAR, awarded a penalty to FC Masar. Maya Ehab converted to equalize, seemingly tilting the momentum.
But AS FAR struck back instantly. Just seconds later, Doha El Madani delivered a decisive blow, converting a spectacular left-sided free kick to seal the victory.
AS FAR will now face TP Mazembe in the final, led by Moroccan coach Lamia Boumehdi. The two teams met in the group stage, with AS FAR claiming a 3-1 victory.
This marks AS FAR’s second final appearance, the first being in Morocco in 2022, the year they claimed their maiden title. A win in this final would see them equal the record for most titles (2) held by South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns.
