By: Jeremiah Nutsugah
Ghana Women’s Premier League champions Ampem Darkoa suffered a setback in the ongoing CAF Women’s Champions League, facing a 3-0 defeat against Malian side AS Mande in their second group game in Group B in San Pedro.
Despite their impressive comeback in the previous Champions League game against AS FAR, Ampem Dakoa couldn’t withstand the strength of the Malian side.
Oumou Kone emerged as the star player, scoring a superb hat-trick against Ampem Dakoa, securing the victory for AS Mande and giving them their first ever win in the CAF women’s champions league since they made their debut in 2021.
In the 41st minute, Kone capitalised on a free-kick from Malmouna Traore, left unmarked in the box, expertly curling the ball past the goalkeeper.
Amidst a fierce battle between the two teams, AS Mande demonstrated their dominance. Leading striker Oumou Kone completed her hat-trick in the second half, earning AS Mande the crucial three points.
In the dying moments of the match, a consolation goal from Mary Amposah was disallowed for offside.
Ampem Dakoa’s disappointing second-half performance meant they couldn’t secure any points, leaving them in the third position on the CAF Women’s Champions League table. AS Mande now lead the table with 4 points, followed by AS FAR in the second position with 3 points.
Ampem Dakoa need to beat the Equatorial Guinea side if they are to advance to the next stage of the competition. Ampem Darkoa Ladies face Hurances on Sunday in Korhogo, while ASFAR Club and AS Mande face off in San Pedro.
