Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns reached the final for the second successive CAF Women’s Champions League tournament following a 1-0 victory over Simba Queens in Rabat on Wednesday.
As expected, the match started intensely with both teams sharing possessions evenly as Sundowns almost drew the first blood through Chuene Morifi but goalkeeper Gelwa Lugomba denied her in the third minute.
However, Simba threatened to hurt in successive attacks through Opah Clement and Asha Djafari before the 15th minute before Rabale forced Lugomba to brilliant saves from freekicks.
After becoming the first to force Sundowns to a barren first half, the Tanzanians came alive seven minutes after the restart and almost break the deadlock through Diana William Mnally’s powerful strike.
Both teams continued to ask questions of each other in the end-to-end affairs until Melinda Kgadiete drove in from the middle before setting up Rabale to score a 76th minute screamer.
Charles Lukula made a late introduction of Barakat Olaiya as they pushed for a late comeback but the Cup holders held out strongly until the death to claim the nervy triumph.
The win means Jerry Tshabalala’s side has reached the Champions League final for the second straight season. And they will meet winners between Bayelsa Queens and hosts ASFAR in the final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on November 13.
Meanwhile, matchwinner Boitumelo Rabale was handed the Woman of the Match prize after inspiring the Cup holders to a semi-final victory over the CECAFA champions. It was her second individual accolade and her third goal of the competition.
Source: Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF)