Zambian champions ZESCO Ndola Girls have reached the COSAFA CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers final for the second consecutive year after beating Malawi’s Silver Strikers 2-1 in Thursday’s semi-final.
ZESCO came into the match with a perfect record from the group stage, having topped Group A with nine points, while Silver Strikers finished second behind Mamelodi Sundowns in Group B.
Penelope Mulubwa opened the scoring in the 11th minute, converting from Charity Mubanga’s assist to give the Zambian champions an early lead.
Mubanga then turned provider into goalscorer six minutes later, finishing off a swift counter-attack led by Enelesi Phiri to double ZESCO’s advantage.
Silver Strikers reduced the deficit in the 63rd minute through Carol Mathyola, who reacted quickest to a rebound following a clearance on the right. Ireen Khumalo provided the cross into the box.
ZESCO held on to secure their place in the final, with defender Jackline Chomba named Player of the Match following a standout defensive display.
The Zegalicious Girls will face either Mamelodi Sundowns or hosts Gaborone United in the final, with a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League group stage at stake.
