Morocco's AS FAR secured a spot in the CAF Women’s Champions League semifinals by defeating Ghanaian side Ampem Darkoa 2-0 on Sunday in Ismailia, Egypt. Goals from captain Ghizlane Chebbak and Hiba Youssoufi gave the defending champions their second consecutive win, securing first place in Group B. AS FAR needed a victory to keep their title defense on track, while Ampem Darkoa required only a draw to guarantee qualification.
The match took a crucial turn early in the second half when Ampem Darkoa's goalkeeper Rose Teye Baah received a red card after a challenge that resulted in another penalty for AS FAR. Chebbak converted from the spot in the 59th minute to put the Moroccan champions ahead. Youssoufi added a second goal six minutes into stoppage time, sealing the win for AS FAR.
AS FAR began their campaign with a 3-2 defeat against Uganda’s Kawempe Muslim Ladies on November 2. However, they responded with a commanding 6-0 win over Mali’s USFAS Bamako three days later, keeping their qualification hopes alive. The Moroccan side finished the group stage with six points, level with Kawempe and Ampem Darkoa, advancing on tiebreaking criteria.
The victory marked an impressive recovery for AS FAR, who have now reached the semifinals in all six editions of the competition since its introduction in 2021. This achievement is unmatched by any other club. AS FAR will face Cameroon’s Lekié Football Filles on Wednesday for a spot in the final. Kawempe will meet South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in the other semifinal.
Morocco’s second representative, FUS Rabat, had a difficult campaign in their first appearance at the competition. They exited the group stage without scoring a goal, having drawn 0-0 against Lekié before suffering consecutive 3-0 defeats to Egypt’s FC Masar and Mamelodi Sundowns.
The competition’s final is scheduled for November 15 at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia. AS FAR, who won the continental title in 2022 and 2025, will hope to secure a third African title. The team’s successful defense of their title will depend on their performance in the upcoming semifinals.
AS FAR's win against Ampem Darkoa showcased their determination and resilience in the face of adversity. With their spot in the semifinals secured, the team will look to build on their momentum and make a strong push for the title. The CAF Women’s Champions League has provided a platform for African women’s football to shine, and AS FAR’s success is a testament to the team's hard work and dedication.
Key points
- AS FAR defeats Ampem Darkoa 2-0 to reach CAF Women’s Champions League semifinals
- Moroccan side secures first place in Group B with second consecutive win
- AS FAR to face Cameroon’s Lekié Football Filles for a spot in the final
