The team, a product of the Right to Dream Academy, edged out Nigeria’s Edo Queens 4-3 on penalties in a thrilling third-place playoff after the match ended goalless in regulation time at Stade Ben Mohamed Al-Abdi in Al-Jadida in Morocco. This groundbreaking achievement cements Masar’s place as a rising force in African women’s football.

The encounter showcased the resilience and tactical discipline of both debutants, with each side creating scoring opportunities only to be denied by outstanding goalkeeping and defensive efforts. Masar’s victory, achieved through a tense penalty shootout, is a testament to the quality and determination of the Egyptian side, marking an unprecedented milestone in the history of women’s football in Egypt.

Masar’s coach Ahmed Ramadan praised the fearless spirit of his players, highlighting their ability to compete against Africa’s elite clubs. “This is a historic victory for us. The team has shown great potential and courage, proving that we can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the continent,” Ramadan said.

Mohamed Mansour, chairman of the Mansour Group and owner of the Right to Dream Academy, expressed pride in the team’s achievement. “Winning the bronze medal in their first appearance is a historic moment for Egyptian football and a testament to the players’ hard work and dedication,” Mansour said. He emphasised that the success was “just the beginning”, voicing optimism about the team’s future prospects in both domestic and international competitions.

Masar’s journey to the podium was nothing short of remarkable. The team earned their spot in the tournament by finishing second in the North African qualifiers. In the group stage, they delivered a stunning 1-0 victory over South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, a two-time African champion, followed by a 2-1 win against Ethiopia’s Commercial Bank and a draw with Edo Queens. Despite a narrow 2-1 semi-final loss to Morocco’s AS FAR, Masar demonstrated their resilience by clinching the bronze medal.

TP Mazembe defeated AS FAR 1–0 in the final, claiming their first-ever African women’s Champions League title, and earning a spot in the group stage of the tournament’s next edition.

Masar’s achievements garnered widespread recognition. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) selected Masar the best women’s football team in Africa for 2024, alongside individual nominations for players and staff. Ramadan is a contender for best coach, while players Sandrine Niyonkuru, Shadia Nankya, and goalkeeper Habiba Sabri are in the running for prestigious individual awards, including Best Player and Best Young Player in Africa.

CAF’s technical study group selected four Masar players for the tournament’s Best XI, highlighting their significant contributions. Sabri earned the title of best goalkeeper, while Nankya and Aisha Nantongo fortified the defence, and Niyonkuru added creativity and flair in midfield. These accolades underscore the team’s exceptional talent and impact on the tournament.

Masar’s historic performance aligns with the broader vision of the Right to Dream Academy, which emphasises talent development and creating opportunities for athletes to excel locally and internationally. “We are committed to nurturing talent and empowering athletes to achieve their dreams,” Mansour stated, reaffirming his dedication to the growth of women’s football in Egypt.

With a strong foundation and ambitious goals, FC Masar’s inspiring journey at the African women’s Champions League sets a new benchmark for Egyptian football and paves the way for the continued development of women’s football in the region.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 28 November, 2024 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly