Kawempe Muslim to face CBE again in Cecafa Qualifiers semis

Kawempe Muslim faces a rematch against Ethiopian powerhouse Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) in the semi-finals of the CAF Women’s Champions League Cecafa Qualifiers, to be held in Kigali, Rwanda.

This encounter sets up a crucial tie for Kawempe as they aim to reach their first-ever final in the competition. The Ugandan team secured their semi-final berth by winning Group B, notably defeating CBE 1-0 in their opening match.

Kawempe further solidified their position with an emphatic 8-0 victory over UJECO of Djibouti. Despite making four changes to the lineup from their previous encounter with CBE, the team showcased dominance. Coach Ayub Khalifa expressed satisfaction with the performance and stated that the team’s focus has shifted entirely to the semi-final.

CBE advanced as the best second-placed team across the groups, narrowly edging out hosts Rayon Sports based on goal difference after tournament regulations discounted results against the fourth-placed team in Group A. This qualification path sets the stage for the repeat fixture.

Their previous semi-final meeting in 2024 saw CBE emerge victorious and go on to win the tournament. The Monday encounter between Kawempe and CBE was closely contested, suggesting another tight affair awaits in the semi-finals. Kawempe’s tactical approach disrupted CBE’s midfield, but the experienced Ethiopian side is expected to adapt their strategy.

The other semi-final will feature Group C winners Kenya Police Bullets against Group A winners Yei Joint Stars.

The semi-finals are scheduled for Saturday at Kigali Pelé Stadium, with Kawempe Muslim vs. CBE kicking off at 2 pm, followed by Yei Joint Stars vs. Kenya Police Bullets at 5 pm.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/kawempe-to-face-cbe-again-as-cecafa-semis-take-shape-5573544