Ampem Darkoa Ladies’ hopes of reaching the finals of the 2023 CAF Women’s Champions League were dealt a major blow after a penalty shootout loss to Sporting Club Casablanca on Wednesday night.
Under the guidance of Nana Joe Adarkwa, the team suffered a 3-2 defeat in the shootout, missing three crucial penalty kicks. This was one more than their Moroccan opponents, following an exciting 2-2 draw in 120 minutes of play.
Comfort Yeboah, Latifa Abesik, and Ophelia Serwaa Amponsah were unable to convert their kicks, contributing to Ampem Darkoa Ladies’ downfall.
Initially, Comfort Yeboah had given her team the lead with a penalty conversion just six minutes into the game. However, her unintentional own goal nullified the Ghanaian side’s advantage, resulting in an equalizer.
Jennifer Owusuaa brought joy to the North African side with a remarkable goal from 25 yards out, securing her first tournament goal.
Casablanca managed to level the score in the second half from the penalty spot, taking advantage of minimal contact in the box to make it 2-2.
After a hard-fought 30 minutes of extra time, the game ended in a 2-2 draw and had to be decided by a penalty shootout.
Despite the missed kicks from the Moroccans, Ampem Darkoa Ladies couldn’t capitalize and ultimately suffered a 3-2 defeat.
Now, Ampem Darkoa Ladies will shift their focus to securing a third place as they prepare to face AS FAR Club.
