ADDIS ABABA: TANZANIA giants Simba Queens put a gallant display of football prowess to secure a decisive 3-0 victory over Uganda’s Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC.
The Group B second victory for the Tanzanian envoy at Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia yesterday earned them a coveted semifinal spot in the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA qualifiers 2024.
While the first half showcased intense tactical play with neither side able to break the deadlock, Simba Queens turned up the heat after the break.
The breakthrough came in the 64th minute, courtesy of a brilliant header from Vivian Corazone, who rose majestically to meet a well delivered cross.
Just five minutes later, the Tanzanian side doubled their lead with another header.
This time, Jentrix Shikangwa was the beneficiary of a pinpoint corner kick, converting it with precision to make it 2-0.
Despite Kawempe’s best efforts to counter with aggressive wing play, their defensive resilience was tested further.
In the 74th minute, Elizabeth Wambui sealed the game with a stunning curled strike from outside the penalty area, leaving the Kawempe goalkeeper rooted on the spot.
Wambui’s goallified the attacking flair and composure that Simba Queens have been known for.
Simba Queens under Head Coach Juma Mgunda opened the tournament with a 5-0 win against FAD Djibouti and have so far scored eight goals and conceded none.
As the dust settles, Simba Queens top Group B with a perfect 6 points, while Kawempe Muslim Ladies FC sits second with 3 points.
PVP Buyenzi FC and FAD Djibouti round up the group, struggling to make an impact.
Simba Queens will conclude group stage matches against Burundian side PVP Bunyenzi FC tomorrow.
The top two teams from Group B will advance to the semifinals, with aspirations of making it to the final stages of the CAF Women’s Champions League.
This marks Simba Queens’ third appearance in the CECAFA qualifiers, adding to their storied history.
Their previous triumph in 2022 earned them a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco, where they narrowly missed out on the finals after a 1-0 defeat to South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns.
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The CECAFA region continues to shine on the continental stage, with JKT Queens and Kenya’s Vihiga Queens reaching the CAF Women’s Champions League finals in 2023 and 2021, respectively.
With the current tournament structured into two groups, each win is critical, earning three points, while draws and losses offer minimal rewards.
Simba Queens are now keen to build on their strong start and push forward into the knockout stages with the confidence and momentum they have displayed.