MWOS FC Queens Left to Rue Missed Chances

MWOS FC Queens suffered a 4-2 defeat to Black Mambas Queens in a Northern Region Women’s League match 7 played at MWOS Ngoni Stadium on Sunday, 7 June 2026. Despite a bright start and an early lead, the Queens were ultimately undone by defensive lapses from set-piece situations as Black Mambas capitalised on their opportunities to claim all three points.
The hosts began the match with confidence and attacking intent, controlling possession and asking questions of the Black Mambas defence. Their positive approach was rewarded in the 10th minute when Kelly Kandemiri produced a superb run down the flank, outpacing several defenders before delivering a dangerous ball across goal. Merian Genti reacted quickest, applying the finishing touch to guide the ball into the net and hand the Queens a deserved lead.
However, the visitors gradually grew into the contest and found a route back into the game through a set piece in the 18th minute. The equaliser shifted the momentum, and although MWOS FC Queens continued to create opportunities, Black Mambas remained dangerous whenever they earned dead-ball situations.
The Queens came close to restoring their advantage in the 27th minute through a dramatic attacking sequence. Merian Genti forced a save from the goalkeeper before seeing the rebound strike the crossbar. Palatial Makaruse reacted first to the loose ball but was equally unfortunate as her effort also rattled the woodwork, allowing Black Mambas to escape a major scare.
Moments later, the visitors completed the turnaround. An error just outside the penalty area resulted in a dangerous free-kick opportunity, and Black Mambas made full use of it to take a 2-1 lead. The visitors carried that advantage into the halftime interval despite continued attacking pressure from the Queens.
The second half began in frustrating fashion for the hosts as Black Mambas extended their lead shortly after the restart to make it 3-1. Seeking a response, the technical bench introduced Betty Pasipadana and Doreen Rugayo for Palatial Makaruse and Kelly Kandemiri in an attempt to inject fresh energy and alter the rhythm of the game.
Black Mambas continued to show efficiency in front of goal and added a fourth goal midway through the second half, placing themselves firmly in control of proceedings. Nevertheless, MWOS FC Queens refused to surrender and continued pushing forward in search of a way back into the match.
Their persistence was rewarded in the 66th minute when Merian Genti grabbed her second goal of the afternoon with a clinical finish, reducing the deficit to 4-2. The striker’s sharp movement and composure in front of goal once again highlighted her importance to the Queens’ attacking play.
Despite their efforts during the closing stages, MWOS FC Queens were unable to find another breakthrough as Black Mambas managed the game professionally and held on for victory.
Speaking after the match, MWOS FC Queens Goalkeepers’ Coach Blessing Mwandimutsira acknowledged both the positives and the lessons from the defeat.
“The girls played very well and showed great character throughout the match. We managed to score first and started the game strongly, but unfortunately we failed to defend set pieces effectively.”
He emphasized that as a team they will focus on correcting those shortcomings ahead of future fixtures.
“Moving forward, we are going to work on those mistakes and make sure we come back stronger. Football is a game of ups and downs. Defeats happen, but what is important is how you respond. We are going to take this defeat, learn from it and channel it into energy, determination and motivation for our next encounter.”
While the result did not go their way, MWOS FC Queens demonstrated resilience, attacking quality and a willingness to fight until the final whistle. The technical team will now turn its attention to refining defensive organisation, particularly from set-piece situations, as the Queens look to bounce back in their upcoming league fixtures.