Published:
Saturday, 02 November 2024
In an exciting chapter of their history, the Congolese women’s football club, TP Mazembe, is gearing up for its second appearance in the prestigious CAF Women’s Champions League.
After making an impressive debut in the 2022 edition of the tournament, Mazembe aims to make a strong statement in this year’s competition, scheduled to take place from 09 to 23 November in the vibrant football hotspot of Morocco.
How the team qualified
Mazembe showcased exceptional talent during the UNIFFAC qualifiers, dominating their opponents with a series of outstanding performances. Under the strategic guidance of coach Lamia Boumehdi, the Congolese outfit achieved two victories and secured one draw, accumulating a total of 7 points.
Their journey began with an impressive 7-0 rout of CSM Diables Noires du Congo, followed by a commanding 4-0 triumph over Atlético Malabo of Equatorial Guinea. In their final qualifier, a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Lekie Football Filles du Cameroun ensured their passage to Morocco with a remarkable goal difference of +11.
Key Player: Esther Diskisa
Among the standout players driving TP Mazembe’s success, Esther Diskisa has emerged as a vital asset, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with an impressive tally of 4 goals.
A dynamic attacker and a natural leader on the field, Diskisa played a pivotal role in the team’s offensive strategy, her blazing speed and sharp finishing proving essential during the qualifiers as she consistently found the back of the net.
The coach: Lamia Boumehdi
Lamia Boumehdi, a distinguished and experienced coach, has successfully fostered a winning mentality within the team. By implementing a structured approach that emphasizes teamwork and tactical discipline, Boumehdi has maximized the potential of his players.
Guided by his vision and expertise, TP Mazembe has not only secured its qualification but has also established itself as a formidable contender on the continental stage, fully prepared to embrace the challenges ahead at the CAF Women’s Champions League.
Previous CAF Women’s Champions League Performance:
2022: Group stage
**Interview with Coach Domo Okara of Bayelsa Queens**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Coach Okara. With the upcoming CAF Women’s Champions League just around the corner, what are your thoughts on competing against seasoned teams like TP Mazembe?
**Coach Okara:** Thank you for having me. Competing against TP Mazembe is always a challenge, but it’s one that we welcome. They have shown tremendous talent and determination, especially after their strong debut in 2022. We are prepared and motivated to give our best performance.
**Interviewer:** You’ve previously mentioned that your team feels “condemned to win.” Can you explain what you mean by that?
**Coach Okara:** Absolutely. It’s a mindset we’ve adopted. When you enter a tournament of this magnitude, the expectation to win can feel overwhelming, but it also fuels our determination. We have set high standards for ourselves, and the pressure to succeed has become our driving force. We are focused on victory, not just for ourselves, but for our fans and the entire Nigerian football community.
**Interviewer:** TP Mazembe has shown exceptional performance in the UNIFFAC qualifiers. How do you plan to counter their strengths?
**Coach Okara:** They certainly have a strong team, but we have done our homework. Our coaching staff has studied their matches closely. We plan to exploit any weaknesses while ensuring our defense is strong. It’s all about sticking to our game plan and executing it effectively on the day of the match.
**Interviewer:** As the tournament is held in Morocco, do you think the local conditions will have any impact on the games?
**Coach Okara:** Morocco is known for its vibrant football culture, and I believe the atmosphere will be invigorating. The weather will play a role, but we have trained extensively to adapt to different conditions. Ultimately, we will focus on our performance and making sure we are mentally prepared for whatever challenges come our way.
**Interviewer:** what message do you have for the fans as the tournament approaches?
**Coach Okara:** To our fans, we appreciate your unwavering support. You motivate us every day, and we promise to give our all on the pitch. Together, we aim to make you proud. Let’s show everyone the strength of Nigerian women’s football!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Coach Okara, and best of luck in the tournament!
**Coach Okara:** Thank you! We’re looking forward to making our mark.
