Northern Region-based side, Topik Sisters, have secured a spot in the 2024 Goshen-FAM National Championship finals after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Mighty Wanderers Queens on Sunday afternoon at Mpira Stadium.
After suffering a heavy defeat in their opening match against Silver Strikers Ladies, Topik Sisters had to come from behind twice to edge past the Nomads and book a place in the quarter final of the competition.
The Nomads, who were thrashed by Andrew Chikhosi’s Silver Strikers Ladies on Friday, were determined to make a comeback against Topik Sisters.
Wanderers made a bright start, with Tawina Kawaga finding the back of the net just five minutes into the game. However, Topik Sisters responded in the 16th minute when Elikana Munthali smashed home to level the tie at halftime.
Mighty Wanderers Queens regained the lead in the 61st minute through Faluna Umali, but their advantage lasted only seven minutes as Maria Chihana pulled Topik level in the 69th minute.
With just 11 minutes left, Munthali completed her brace in the 79th minute, sealing a crucial win for Topik Sisters and handing the Nomads their second defeat in the playoffs.
Topik Sisters’ Head Coach Levi Mhone praised his team’s fighting spirit and resilience.
“I am very proud of the girls. They showed great character and never gave up, even when we were trailing twice. This victory is a testament to their determination,” he said.
On the other hand, Wanderers Queens’ goalkeepers coach Davie Pashani acknowledged the loss but remained optimistic about the future.
“We have a youthful squad, and we were not necessarily focused on results. We are building a team that we believe will be competitive in the next two or three seasons. Football is a game of mistakes, and unfortunately, we made a few that our opponents capitalized on,” Pashani said.
Silver Strikers Ladies, who advanced to the final on Saturday after beating both Wanderers and Topik Sisters, will face Civo Women’s FC, while Topik Sisters will take on Moyale Barracks Sisters.
