2025 CAF WCLZQ: Kampala Queens Eliminated

Rayon Sports Women FC have made history by becoming the first Rwandan team to reach the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Qualifiers after defeating Uganda’s Kampala Queens in a dramatic penalty shootout.

The semifinal clash, held at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday afternoon, ended in a goalless stalemate after regulation and extra time.

Rayon Sports triumphed 4-3 in the penalty shootout to book their spot in the final.

Kampala Queens, who qualified for the semifinals as the best second-placed team in the group stage, will rue their missed opportunities, especially during key moments of the match.

In the first half, Odette Elsie was gifted possession inside the box by Kampala Queens defender Jolly Kobusinge, but goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro came to the rescue with a stunning save to deny the Rwandan side an opener.

Despite dominating the early exchanges, Rayon Sports failed to capitalize on their chances, with their forwards lacking composure in the final third. The first half ended goalless.

In the second half, Kampala Queens head coach
Asefa Firew made tactical substitutions, bringing on Joanita Ainembabazi and Zaitun Namaganda for Kamiyat Naigaga and Wujja Catherine in search of a breakthrough.

Ainembabazi squandered a clear-cut opportunity shortly after her introduction, and she missed another golden chance during extra time that could have sealed the game for Kampala Queens.

As the game edged toward penalties, Asefa made further tactical changes, introducing goalkeeper Gloria Namakula and midfielder Teddy Najjuma in preparation for the shootout.

In the shootout, Catherine Nagadya missed the opening spot-kick for Kampala Queens, while Rayon Sports converted their first to take an early lead.

Najjuma levelled for the Ugandans, but Rayon Sports responded by scoring again to regain the advantage.

Ainembabazi and captain Shakirah Nankwanga converted their penalties for Kampala Queens, but goalkeeper Namakula was unable to make a crucial save to bring her side back on level terms.

Substitute Zaitun Namaganda then missed the decisive fifth penalty for Kampala Queens, rendering Rayon Sports’ final penalty unnecessary as they secured a 4-3 shootout victory.

Rayon Sports Women FC will face the winner of the second semifinal between JKT Queens and Kenya Police Bullets in the final.

Meanwhile, Kampala Queens will compete for the bronze medal on Tuesday, 16 September, against the loser of the second semifinal.