CAF Women’s Champions League: ASEC Mimosas rules out pressure

ASEC Mimosas coach Siaka “Gigi” Traoré has cautioned the team against being under pressure when they kick off their 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League campaign in Egypt from November 8-21.

The Ivorian side have been drawn in Group B alongside Tanzania’s JKT Queens, TP Mazembe (DR Congo), and Botswana’s Gaborone United.

Mimosa’s victory in the WAFU B tournament — which included a decisive win over Nigeria’s Bayelsa Queens, bronze medallists at the 2022 CAF Women’s Champions League — underlined their regional authority.

‘We know the level will be very high’

“We’ve been preparing calmly and confidently for this new challenge,” Traoré said as quoted by CAFOnline.com. “The domestic league has been an excellent foundation for us. Everything is done with focus, discipline, and a positive mindset.”

He added: “Our philosophy is simple: play the game well, and the results will follow. I encourage the players to express themselves on the pitch without fear or pressure. With time, that mindset has become part of our DNA.”

Traoré continued: “We don’t feel pressure going into this competition. It’s our first time at this level, so our priority is to learn and grow. We know we have a say in the competition, even if we’re not the favourites. That freedom allows us to play with courage and confidence.

“Women’s football is progressing everywhere. You can see the improvements across Africa — better structures, more competitive leagues, and more visibility. The evolution is clear, and Côte d’Ivoire is part of that story.”

“We know the level will be very high,” he concluded, “but ASEC has always stood for excellence. Whether in men’s or women’s football, our identity is built on hard work and belief. We’re going to represent Côte d’Ivoire with pride — and show that we have our own voice in African football.”

Group A comprises FC Masar (Egypt), ASFAR (Morocco), 15 De Agosto (Equatorial Guinea) and Mali’s USFAS Bamako.

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