Ampem Darkoa’s opening win fuels qualification push in WAFU B

Ampem Darkoa Ladies' 1‑0 victory over ASEC Mimosas hands the Ghanaian champions three points, a vital step toward securing qualification in the CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers and providing a confidence boost for coach Charles Anokye’s side in their opening match as they look ahead to their next group fixture.

How the win unfolded

The Ivorian champions missed a penalty early in the match, before Gloria Adomakos' 29th‑minute header gave Ampem Darkoa the advantage and broke the deadlock.

Goalkeeper Rose Baah then withstood sustained pressure, making several key saves to deny ASEC any equaliser and keeping the scoreline intact.

“Yeah, this game meant a lot for us because we wanted a positive start. We wanted to win to motivate the girls so that maybe our second game, if we were to get a draw win, then it means we are moving out of the group,” coach Charles Anokye said. He added that the importance of starting the competition with three points could not be overstated, particularly with qualification at stake.

“So this game was very, very important for us. We didn't want to leave a stone unturned, but to work harder at every cost to make sure that we get our three points. Or at worst, we draw the game and go home,” Anokye continued.

The victory gives Anokye’s side confidence ahead of their next Group B encounter against AS Garde Nationale of Niger on Thursday, a result that would place the Ghanaian champions in a strong position to advance to the next stage.