Defending champions USFAS of Mali have booked their place in the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU A Qualifiers after edging Gambian champions Berewuleng Women’s FC 3–2 in a thrilling semifinal at the Independence Stadium.

Berewuleng made a dream start when Ellen Gomez opened the scoring in the 3rd minute. The forward capitalised after the USFAS defence failed to properly deal with goalkeeper Diminga Mendy’s clearance, giving the Gambian champions an early advantage.

However, USFAS responded almost immediately, with experienced striker Oumou Kone restoring parity in the 7th minute to make it 1–1.

Oumou Kone then put USFAS ahead in the 14th minute after receiving a pass from Aïssata Dembele before finding the back of the net to complete the comeback.

USFAS extended their advantage in first half stoppage time when Oumou Kone combined with Aïssata Dembele, who scored in the 45+2nd minute to make it 3–1.

Berewuleng thought they had reduced the deficit in the 53rd minute when Sarah Jarju raced through on goal, dribbled past the goalkeeper and slotted the ball home from Mafanta Drammeh’s pass. However, the assistant referee raised the flag for offside and the goal was ruled out.

The Gambian champions continued to push and were eventually rewarded in the 70th minute when Marie Prierra scored a well taken goal to make it 3–2 and give Berewuleng renewed hope.

Berewuleng pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages, but USFAS held firm to secure a 3–2 victory and book their place in the final.

By Ebrima KB Sonko