Ampem Darkoa closer to continental glory, face Sam Nelly FC in semis
Ghana champions, Ampem Darkoa Ladies, look poised to take a significant stride in their quest for a coveted spot in the premier women's club competition on the continent by defeating Sam Nelly FC from Benin today in the semi-finals of the ongoing WAFU Zone B CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers.
The Ghanaians have showcased their dominance in the tournament with remarkable victories against fellow Group B contenders, Amis Du Monde and Athletico Abidjan.
Their journey began with a 4-2 triumph over Amis Du Monde in the opening match of Group B, followed by an impressive 3-0 victory over Athletico Abidjan last Friday.
It sets the stage for their showdown with Sam Nelly FC at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. The focal point of Ampem Darkoa's offensive prowess has been the prolific striker Mary Amponsah who has been instrumental in their successful run.
This afternoon, Coach Nana Joe Adarkwa, will once again rely on the impressive goal-scoring expertise of his leading striker who has netted an astounding seven goals across two matches and won back-to-back Most Valuable Player awards.
Red-hot Amponsah
The reigning Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League top scorer is on fire and will be a formidable force and a key asset in today's high-stakes encounter as Ghana’s ladies are relentless in their determination to overcome any opposition in their path to securing a ticket to the continental competition.
After missing the zonal ticket to participate in Africa's premier competition last year, Coach Adarkwa and his charges are on a relentless pursuit to make amends this time, and their spirited display in the ongoing qualifiers in Benin City, Nigeria, demonstrates their commitment to achieve their aspirations.
This afternoon, the Ghanaian gaffer is expected to deploy his top-tier line-up similar to the one that clinched a 3-1 victory against Athletico, with goalkeeper Aishetu Fatao Awini maintaining her place in the posts ahead of Charlotte Adjei who conceded two goals in their opening match against Amis Du Monde.
Coach Adarkwa is spoilt for choice in the midfield department with an array of options, including Tracy Twum, Latifa Abesik, Jennifer Owusua, Comfort Yeboah, Diana Amoako and Abena Anoma Opoku, while free-scoring Mary Amponsah spearheads the attack alongside Ophelia Serwaa Amponsah, Helena Obeng and Mavis Owusu, offering a multifaceted offensive strategy.
Other match
Group B runners-up Athletico will face Nigerian champions Delta Queens in the other semi-final this afternoon.
Delta Queens topped Group A after completing three straight victories, including a 2-0 beating of Benin's Sam Nelly last Friday through goals from Owoeye Temitope and Ifeoma Ifitezue.
Victory for either side in the semi-finals will move them closer to representing the region at the continental showpiece in November.