Staff Reporter.
Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies booked their spot in the final of the continental tournament after beating Malabo Kings of Equatorial Guinea 5-4 on penalties in the semi-final, following the sides goalless draw after extra-time at the El Salaam Stadium on Monday.
Undefeated so far in the tournament, the South Africans enjoyed much of the ball possession and created a number of chances earlier on in the game. Within just eight minutes, Chuene Morifi’s well delivered cross from the right flank met up Melinda Kgadiete in the King’s box, but the striker couldn’t keep her header down, missing an opportunity to take the lead.
In the 21st minute, another glorious chance fell for Morifi as Kings failed to clear the ball inside the box, but the Downs winger shot’s was easily saved by keeper Ruth Sunday.
Lelona Daweti had her diving header denied by the goalpost in the 61st minute. Substitute Andisiwe Mgcoyi got a fine opportunity to put Sundowns in the lead with 10 minutes of regular time remaining, but she couldn’t keep her header down as the sides went into full-time unable to break the deadlock.
With a spot for the final up for grabs, the teams went into extra-time, but still failed to find the back of the net, leaving the tie to be decided on penalties.
The Sundowns Ladies will now do battle against Hassacas Ladies from Ghana, who defeated Morocco’s ASFAR 2-1 at Al Salam Stadium in the other semifinal match on Monday.
The final will be played in Cairo on Friday at 7pm SA time.