As the 2023 CAF Women’s Champions League approaches in Cote d’Ivoire next month, Ghana’s Ampem Darkoa Ladies, have departed the shores of the country for its inaugural continental campaign, shouldering the hopes of an entire nation.
This tournament, now in its third edition, is scheduled from November 5th to 19th and has ignited the dreams of Ghanaians as they strive to rejuvenate Ghana’s fortunes on the continental stage.
Notably, in the inaugural edition of the tournament, Ghana’s Hasaacas made it to the final, ultimately succumbing 2-0 to South African club Mamelodi Sundowns.
However, last year, Ampem Darkoa Ladies left a void when they failed to qualify, losing in the regional qualifying competition’s final to the Nigerian side Bayelsa Queens. Nonetheless, they made a triumphant return by securing a spot in the competition, winning the WAFU Zone B tournament in August, clinching victory with a 1-0 scoreline against Nigerian champions Delta Queens in the final.
Their journey to this prestigious event was marked by earlier triumphs against teams such as Togo’s Amis Du Monde, Ivorian side Athletico Abidjan, and Benin’s Sam Nelly FC during the regional qualifying event. While the final was decided by Ophelia Serwaa’s composed 43rd-minute goal, Ampem Darkoa’s earlier matches showcased their attacking prowess. Mary Amponsah emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals, solidifying her status as a player to watch in Cote d’Ivoire.
Drawn into Group B, Ampem Darkoa Ladies faces formidable opponents in holders AS FAR Rabat of Morocco, Huracanes of Equatorial Guinea, and AS Mande of Mali. Despite the challenges, Amponsah remains confident in their prospects.
With women’s football gaining momentum across West Africa, the Ghanaians have an opportunity to propel its growth through a strong performance in the CAF Women’s Champions League and possibly surpass Hasaacas’ achievements in the inaugural competition. A historic win by a Ghanaian team would undoubtedly further ignite participation and interest in women’s football back home.