Kampala Queens’ hopes of reaching the CAF Women’s Champions League final tournament ended in heartbreak on Sunday after a 4-3 penalty shootout loss to Rayon Sports Women FC at Moi International Sports Complex, Kasarani.
The semifinal ended goalless after both regulation and extra time, forcing the tie to be decided from the spot.
Rayon Sports, who had missed several clear chances in the first half, held their nerve in the shootout to become the first Rwandan side to reach the final of the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.
Goalkeeper Angeline Ndakimana was the standout performer for the Rwandan side, saving penalties from Catherine Nagadya and Zaitun Namaganda.
Kampala Queens’ substitutes Joanita Ainembabazi and Shakirah Nankwanga converted their attempts, but Namaganda’s decisive miss sealed their fate.
Earlier, Kampala Queens had been handed opportunities to take control of the match, with Ainembabazi missing two clear chances after coming off the bench.
Goalkeeper Daisy Nakaziro also pulled off a vital save in the first half to deny Odette Elsie after a defensive lapse.
Head coach Asefa Firew introduced fresh legs late in the game, including goalkeeper Gloria Namakula for the penalties, but the gamble did not pay off.
Rayon Sports will now meet JKT Queens in the final, with Kampala Queens left to battle for bronze on Tuesday.
Only the champion of the CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers will qualify for the CAF Women’s Champions League final tournament.
