ASEC Mimosas have booked their ticket to the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League after defeating Bayelsa Queens 8-7 on penalties in a thrilling WAFU B final at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium, Yamoussoukro, on Friday.
Backed by a raucous home crowd, ASEC made the perfect start when Bayelsa’s defence switched off in the fifth minute, a throw-in from the right found its way across the box, and Ami Diallo reacted quickest to stab home from close range.
But Bayelsa, champions of the inaugural edition in 2022, responded on 18 minutes. Persistent work from Folajomi Olabiyi on the flank created space for a curling cross, which Emem Essien powered into the net with a header – her second in as many games.
The equaliser sparked a frantic first half, but both sides went into the break level at 1-1.
Bayelsa Push, ASEC Hold Firm
The Nigerian side carried more threat after the restart, Seimeyeha Akekoromowei forced a strong save from goalkeeper Nina Dabilgou in the 75th minute, before Shakirat Moshood drew another parry with a long-range free-kick.
Bayelsa piled on the pressure late on, but ASEC’s defence refused to buckle, extra time brought few clear chances, though Bayelsa keeper Omini Monle pulled off two crucial stops in the dying seconds to drag the tie into penalties.
Sudden Death Drama
The shootout turned into a test of nerve; ASEC were nearly flawless, converting eight of their nine spot-kicks through Diallo, Gbehi, Dagba, Ouedraogo, Brou, Diarra and Aboa Yapo, with captain N’Guessan leading by example.
Bayelsa initially matched stride for stride – Moshood, Alexander, Akekoromowei, Iheoma, Mafisere, Ifeanyi and Oladeji all finding the net – but costly misses from Sefiat Idris (wide) and Sofiat Bankole (saved) tipped the balance.
ASEC triumphed 8-7 in sudden death, sparking jubilant celebrations as they became the first Ivorian club to win the WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers.
What It Means
ASEC will now represent the region at the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League, marking a historic achievement for Ivorian women’s football.
For Bayelsa Queens, who had targeted a return to continental competition, the defeat was a painful reminder of missed opportunities and leaves them settling for runners-up once again.
Final Score (penalties):
ASEC Mimosas 1-1 Bayelsa Queens (ASEC win 8-7 on pens)