Edo Queens petition CAF again over Ampem Darkoa’s qualification for 2026 Women’s Champions League

Nigerian side Edo Queens have renewed their challenge against Ampem Darkoa Ladies’ qualification for the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League, filing a fresh petition with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over the controversial WAFU Zone B qualifying final.

The club is asking CAF to declare the October 29 continuation of the final in Cairo, Egypt, null and void, raising concerns over the change of venue, match arrangements and the eligibility of some players.

Ampem Darkoa secured qualification after recording a 3-2 aggregate victory, with Afishata Mohammed scoring the decisive goal in the 92nd minute of extra time.

The latest petition adds another chapter to a dispute that dates back to September 5, when the two sides originally met in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Edo Queens initially celebrated the regional title after winning 4-1 on penalties, following a 2-2 draw at the end of regulation time.

However, CAF’s Organising Committee later ruled that the penalty shootout had no sporting effect and directed that the match resume from the beginning of extra time. The decision was subsequently upheld by the CAF Appeal Board on October 16.

Edo Queens have now questioned the arrangements surrounding the continuation in Cairo, claiming the relocation did not receive the required confirmation from WAFU Zone B. They have also cited concerns over player eligibility, accommodation and communication regarding the match.

In their latest appeal, the Nigerian club is seeking to have Ampem Darkoa’s qualification suspended, the Cairo continuation declared invalid and the match replayed at its original venue. Edo Queens have also requested to be declared winners should a replay prove impossible before the start of the continental competition.

Meanwhile, Ampem Darkoa are preparing for their participation in Group B of the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League, where they are scheduled to face AS FAR of Morocco, Kawempe Muslim Ladies of Uganda and USFAS Bamako of Mali.

With the tournament scheduled to take place in Egypt from November 1 to 15, CAF faces a tight window to address the latest petition, leaving the qualification dispute hanging over the competition.