Vihiga edge AS Kigali to book CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zone qualifiers semi-final spot

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FOOTBALL Vihiga edge AS Kigali to book CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zone qualifiers semi-final spot

Festus Chuma 17:56 - 16.08.2023

Charles Okere’s coached side have one match remaining in the group stages against JKT Queens of Tanzania on Sunday.

Football Kenya Federation Women’s Premier League champions Vihiga Queens defeated AS Kigali Women 1-0 in a CAF Women’s Champions League – CECAFA Zone qualifiers Group B match at MTN Phillip Omondi Stadium in Kampala, Uganda on Wednesday afternoon.

As a result, Vihiga Queens progressed to the semi-finals, having already defeated New Generations FC from Zanzibar 3-1 in their opening match on Sunday.

Under the coaching of Charles Okere, the team has one more match remaining in the group stage, facing JKT Queens on Sunday. So far, they have accumulated six points from two matches.

Vihiga Queens started the game brightly, applying pressure on Kigali. However, the Kenyan champions were let down by some poor finishing.

A well-saved effort from Phelistus Kadari was the result of Kigali goalkeeper Angeline Ndakimana's quick reaction, after the Queens midfielder was given some space and time to shoot.

Zaawadi Ananase, known for her long-range shooting ability, also tried her luck from distance. Her effort, in the 27th minute, flew over the crossbar, as the Queens contained the attack.

On the other side, in-form Omita Berthawas, in the 36th minute, cut inside from the right and scored, giving Queens a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.

Kigali did not adopt a defensive approach after the restart, pushing forward in search of the equalizing goal.

Midfielders Marthe Nyiramwiza and Mutuyemariya Florentine were both introduced in the 66th minute by Kigali head coach Daniella Niyibimenya, as Kigali looked to take control of the game.

Pushing forward in numbers left Kigali vulnerable at the back, and they were punished by Merice Wayondi.

How they lined up:

Vihiga Queens: Ruth Aturo,Winnie Babirye,Phelistus Kadari,Phoebe Okech, Ruth Khasoha, Martha Amunyolet, Maurine Achieng, Omita Bertha, Alice Mideri, Anitah Namata, Wayodi Mercie ©