Ampem Darkoa edge Edo Queens in dramatic replay to book CAF Women's Champions League ticket

com-Cameroon Ghanaian side Ampem Darkoa Ladies have secured their place at the 2026 CAF Women's Champions League after edging Nigeria's Edo Queens 3-2 on aggregate in a dramatic 30-minute replay of the WAFU-B final in Cairo, Egypt. A 92nd-minute strike from Mohammed Afishata proved decisive, sealing victory for Ampem Darkoa and ending Edo Queens' hopes of returning to the continental competition for a second time.

The Nigerian champions had made their maiden appearance in 2024 in Morocco. The outcome reverses the result of the original final, in which Edo Queens emerged victorious on penalties following a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

However, the decision to stage a 30-minute replay after the initial final has generated debate among football followers, with questions being raised about CAF's handling of the situation. Edo Queens will feel disappointed after coming so close to qualification, but their performance deserves recognition.

The Nigerian side put up a strong fight against their Ghanaian opponents, with the narrow aggregate defeat ultimately denying them another opportunity to compete among Africa's best clubs. For Ampem Darkoa, the victory represents a return to the CAF Women's Champions League, where they will now represent the WAFU-B zone in the 2026 edition.

They have been drawn in Group B alongside Morocco's AS FAR, Uganda's Kawempe Muslim Ladies and USFAS Bamako of Mali. The 2026 CAF Women's Champions League will take place in Egypt from November 1 to 15, with Ampem Darkoa now preparing to test themselves against the continent's leading women's clubs.

Edo Queens, meanwhile, will turn their attention to preparations for the new Nigeria Women Football League season, which is expected to begin next month.