WATCH: Shocking Result - Mamelodi Sundowns crash out of Champions League after defeat to Nigerian club

In a heart-stopping Caf Women's Champions League clash at the Laarbi Zaouli Stadium on Saturday night, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies suffered a devastating 2-1 defeat against Nigerian side Edo Queens, who scored two late goals to snatch victory and secure their place in the semi-finals.

The tension was palpable in the Group B match as both teams fought fiercely for the coveted spot.

The match started at a frenetic pace, with Queens threatening first. They tested Sundowns’ goalkeeper Andile Dlamini in the 13th minute, forcing her into a crucial save that set the tone for a competitive day on the pitch.

Sundowns made their mark ten minutes later when Melinda Kgadiete capitalized on a defensive lapse to put her side ahead in the 23rd minute, making it 1-0. The African Champions seemed to gain confidence, coming close to extending their lead in the 30th minute when an attempt from Ramalepe was thwarted by Queens’ goalkeeper Monle Omini Oyono.

As the first half concluded, Sundowns headed into the break with a 1-0 lead, appearing to be on track for the semi-finals.

The second half brought renewed intensity, and in the 52nd minute, Queens were granted a golden chance to level the score with a penalty. However, Dlamini once again proved to be a wall, diving to her left to deny Mary Mamudu and keep Sundowns ahead.

Despite maintaining their lead for much of the match, the tide began to turn as the clock wound down. Queens surged forward, creating several scoring opportunities. Their determination paid off dramatically when they equalized in the dying moments, finding the net in optional time to make it 1-1 through Emem Peace Essien, sending shockwaves through the Sundowns camp.

But the drama didn’t end there. Just moments later, in stoppage time, Queens struck again through Mary Mamudu, capitalizing on a defensive error to score their second goal and complete an incredible turnaround. The score now stood at 2-1, leaving Sundowns reeling.

As the final whistle blew, the reality sank in: Sundowns Ladies, once on the brink of victory, were eliminated from the tournament after a remarkable comeback from Queens.

This painful defeat will require reflection for Sundowns, who will need to regroup and look ahead after an emotional end to a match that promised so much. Meanwhile, Queens will celebrate a thrilling win that has propelled them into the semi-finals, revitalizing their campaign with a spark of resilience.

For the second time since the tournament was established in 2001, Sundowns have failed to defend their crown after finishing third in Group B.

Banyana Ba Style were the inaugural champions four years ago before losing to Morocco's AS FAR in the 2022 final. However, they were crowned champions for the second time in 2023 after defeating SC Casablanca of Morocco in the final.

Group B runners-up Queens, on the other hand, are making their debut appearance in the continent tournament.

The Edo State-based side won the NWFL Premiership and Wafu Zone B Qualifiers to book their spot in the Champions League.

Queens will now take on DR Congolese giants TP Mazembe in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final.

Sundowns, on the other hand, will travel back home after being eliminated from the Caf tournament, ending their 2024 season.