Edo Queens on Saturday dethroned reigning champions, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa after coming back from a goal down and penalty kick miss to win 2-1.
At the dot of 90 minutes, it looked like the Edo Queens were out. Then, there were six minutes of additional time. By the fourth minute of the added time, Mamelodi Sundowns were already playing for time, trying to wind down the clock. They even attempted further substitutions.
Then came a turnaround. Edo Queens who had missed many scoring chances including a second-half penalty miss suddenly woke up and levelled up from a goal-mouth melee.
Emem Peace scored to cancel the earlier 24th-minute goal by Melinda Kgadiete for the South Africans. With the wild celebrations attending the goal, an additional five minutes were added by the referee.
The South Africans would have wished that did not happen. At 90+11th minute, Mary Mamudu scored the winner for the Edo Queens who just required a draw to qualify.
But the win ensured they led the group and will avoid playing against hosts and former champions, AS FAR of Morocco in Tuesday’s semi-final match. .
Edo Queens, the first Nigerian side to cross the group stage will now play against TP Mazembe of DR Congo on Tuesday.
