ASEC Mimosas Stun Defending Champions TP Mazembe in CAF Women’s Champions League
ASEC Mimosas delivered a stunning 1-0 victory over defending champions TP Mazembe at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia on Sunday. This result has placed the DR Congo side’s title defense in immediate danger, as they now face an uphill battle to retain their crown.
The Ivorian team, making their debut in the CAF Women’s Champions League, showcased maturity and tactical discipline throughout the match. They struck mid-way through the second half and then controlled the game effectively to secure three crucial points.
The encounter was a tightly contested, tactical affair with few clear chances. The breakthrough came in the 66th minute when ASEC orchestrated their best move of the match down the right flank. Habibou Ouédraogo capitalized on a sweeping team attack, scoring the decisive goal and giving the “Mimos” a well-deserved lead.
From that point onward, Siaka “Gigi” Traoré’s side maintained a compact formation, defended the central spaces diligently, and forced TP Mazembe to chase throughout the remainder of the game.
This upset continues a pattern of early challenges for dominant teams in this competition. In previous editions, AS FAR were defeated by Ampem Darkoa (2-1) in 2023, while Mamelodi Sundowns fell to FC Masar (1-0) in 2024. ASEC’s strong organization, intensity, and clarity in transition proved too much for their opponents, who struggled to find rhythm in the final third.
TP Mazembe, who were crowned champions in Morocco last year, failed to impose their usual authority on the match. Lamia Boumehdi’s team were outclassed in duels for long periods and lacked precision in key moments around the box. Their crosses were often overhit, and their shots were rushed as pressure mounted.
When the holders managed to create shooting opportunities, ASEC crowded the ball and defended the penalty area with conviction. This defensive resilience played a significant role in securing the win.
The loss leaves Mazembe with little room for error. Their upcoming match against Gaborone United on Wednesday is already looking like a critical game if they are to keep their trophy defense alive. Boumehdi will need her team to show a sharper edge in attack and a stronger contest for second balls after a performance that lacked their trademark control.
For ASEC Mimosas, this victory marks a significant milestone. In their first appearance at this level, Traoré’s team demonstrated the resilience and discipline of seasoned campaigners, announcing themselves as serious contenders for progression.
If ASEC can maintain this blend of defensive assurance and incisive counter-play, the Ivorian debutantes will have every reason to believe they can extend their memorable first campaign in the CAF Women’s Champions League.