Masar dramatically secure semi-finals spot with hard-fought draw against USFAS Bamako

In a tense Group A finale at the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League, hosts Masar secured a crucial 1-1 draw against Malian debutants USFAS Bamako to advance to the semi-finals, finishing second behind group leaders AS FAR.

The match started with early promise for USFAS Bamako as Oumou Kone netted in the 10th minute, assisted by Maïmouna Traoré, giving the visitors a valuable lead. The Malian side looked strong and determined to make history on their first appearance in the tournament.

Masar, spurred on by home support, responded fiercely and maintained pressure, eventually earning a late and highly dramatic equalizer by Farah Hisham Mohsen El Mahdy who found the net, with an assist from Mahira Ali, levelling the score and securing a vital point for the Egyptian hosts.

The draw proved enough for Masar to edge USFAS Bamako by a single point in the group standings, ensuring Masar’s progression to the semi-finals alongside the unbeaten AS FAR, who topped Group A.

Key Facts & Group Standings

·      AS FAR finish top of Group A, qualifying alongside Masar, who secured second place on points.

·      USFAS Bamako finish third, narrowly missing out on a semi-final berth despite a spirited debut campaign.

·      USFAS Bamako’s run in their maiden CAF Women’s Champions League remains a landmark achievement for Malian women’s club football.

Masar and AS FAR now prepare for the knockout rounds with high hopes of contesting the title, while USFAS Bamako return home having made a strong impression in their first CAF Women’s Champions League campaign.