ASEC Mimosas Ladies clinched the 2025 WAFU B Women’s Championship title and a ticket to the Champions League after a nerve-shredding 8-7 penalty shootout victory over Bayelsa Queens in Yamoussoukro on Friday.
The hosts made a dream start when Ami Diallo pounced on defensive indecision in the fifth minute to slot home, but Bayelsa responded through Emem Essien’s equaliser midway through the first half.Hakeem Busari’s side pressed hard after the break, with Seimeyeha Akekoromowei and Shakirat Moshood forcing goalkeeper Kady Dabilgou into key saves.
The tie remained level through 90 minutes and extra time, with Bayelsa keeper Monle Omini producing late heroics to keep her side alive.In the shootout, ASEC held their nerve as Diallo, Gbehi, Dagba, Ouedraogo, Brou, Diarra and Aboa Yapo all converted, with captain N’Guessan leading the charge.
Bayelsa matched them through Moshood, Alexander, Akekoromowei, Iheoma, Mafisere, Ifeanyi and Oladeji, but misses from Sefiat Idris and Sofiat Bankole proved costly.The victory makes ASEC the first Ivorian side to win the WAFU B qualifiers and secure a place at the CAF Women’s Champions League.
Bayelsa, champions in 2022, were left to rue missed chances as they settle for second best.
