In a thrilling conclusion to Group B of the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League, defending champions TP Mazembe showcased their dominance with a convincing 4–1 victory over the JKT Queens of Tanzania. The match, which took place on Saturday, sealed Mazembe’s place in the semi-finals, reinforcing their status as a formidable force in women’s football.
The encounter started with a surprising twist as JKT Queens took an early lead just 12 minutes into the match. Stumai Athumani capitalized on a defensive lapse by Mazembe, slotting the ball past the goalkeeper and sending a wave of optimism through the JKT camp. However, the joy was short-lived as Mazembe responded aggressively.
Marlene Yav Kasaj stepped up to equalize for the Congolese side, converting a penalty in the 23rd minute following a foul in the box. Just six minutes later, Nigerian international Oluwayemis Samuel flipped the momentum entirely by scoring with a composed finish, putting Mazembe ahead 2-1.
As the first half approached its conclusion, Ghanaian star Grace Acheampong added a third goal right at the stroke of half-time (45+3’), leaving JKT Queens reeling and firmly putting Mazembe in control with a 3-1 scoreline.
In the second half, TP Mazembe demonstrated maturity and discipline, effectively managing the game to prevent JKT from mounting a comeback. The champions extended their lead in the 66th minute when Yav Kasaj converted her second penalty of the match, completing her brace and solidifying the team’s dominant display.
Despite continuous efforts from JKT to find a route back into the game, the disciplined Mazembe defense held firm, denying any further scoring opportunities.
With this victory, TP Mazembe finished Group B in second place with six points, trailing section winners ASEC Mimosas, who achieved a 4–0 victory over Gaborone United in the day’s other fixture, concluding their group stage with seven points.
JKT Queens, despite their spirited effort, found themselves finishing third with just two points, having drawn their first two matches before this defeat.
This result signifies the continuation of TP Mazembe’s impressive record against tournament debutants, as they remain firmly in the running to defend their title in the knockout stage that begins next week. The performance underlines the team’s capacity to bounce back, especially after trailing early in the match.
Key Statistics:
Goalscorers:
– JKT Queens: Stumai Athumani (12’)
– TP Mazembe: Marlene Yav Kasaj (pen 23’), Oluwayemis Samuel (29’), Grace Acheampong (45+3’), Marlene Yav Kasaj (pen 66’).
Group B Standings:
- ASEC Mimosas – 7 points (Goal Difference +5)
- TP Mazembe – 6 points (Goal Difference +5)
- JKT Queens – 2 points
- Gaborone United – 1 point.
Notably, Yav Kasaj’s brace now sees her as a significant contender, having scored in back-to-back finals editions. Meanwhile, JKT Queens will exit the tournament still searching for their first knockout stage appearance, having struggled to convert their promising performances into victories.
The upcoming semi-finals will see TP Mazembe focus on reclaiming their title, confident after a strong group stage performance, while JKT Queens reflect on what has been a learning experience against some of the continent’s best teams.
