Edo Queens, Nigeria’s representatives in the CAF Women Champions League CAFWCL WAFU B Qualifiers, are just 90 minutes away from making history. The team secured their spot in the final by defeating hosts Inter D’Abidjan 2-1 in the semi finals on Tuesday in Bouake. Emem Essien put Edo Queens ahead just seven minutes into the match, and Blessing Ilivieda doubled the lead in the 34th minute. Although Inter D’Abidjan’s Adjoua Niamien pulled one back, Edo Queens held on to secure a place in the final.
This marks the first time Edo Queens have reached the final of a regional competition, and they will now face Ainonvi of Benin Republic, who triumphed 1-0 over AS Enticelles of Burkina Faso in the other semi final. A victory in the final would make Edo Queens the second Nigerian team to win the WAFU B tournament and the first to win five consecutive matches in the competition. The winner will also earn a spot in the CAF Women Champions League 2024, which will be held in Cairo.
Editorial
Edo Queens’ journey to the final of the WAFU B tournament is a testament to their determination and skill. From the group stage to the semi-finals, they have displayed outstanding performances, and now they are on the brink of making history. For Nigerian football fans, this is more than just a football match it’s an opportunity for Edo Queens to establish themselves as a dominant force in women’s football, not only in Nigeria but across the WAFU B region.
Their semi final victory over Inter D’Abidjan showcased the team’s resilience and tactical strength, with early goals setting the tone for the match. Emem Essien’s quick strike and Blessing Ilivieda’s follow up gave Edo Queens the upper hand, and they demonstrated maturity in managing the game after the hosts attempted a comeback.
Facing Ainonvi of Benin Republic in the final, Edo Queens have the chance to win the tournament and set records. Their journey so far suggests that they have the quality to bring the trophy home. As they prepare for the final, the team must remain focused and continue to exhibit the same hunger and discipline that got them this far.
Victory in the WAFU B tournament would mean much more than silverware it would provide Edo Queens with the chance to represent Nigeria on the continental stage at the CAF Women’s Champions League in Cairo. We believe that Edo Queens have everything to gain and will rise to the occasion in the final.
Did You Know?
- Edo Queens are the first Nigerian team to reach the final of the WAFU B Women’s tournament in their debut attempt.
- The winner of the WAFU B competition earns a spot in the CAF Women Champions League, with the 2024 edition to be held in Cairo.
- Edo Queens are just one victory away from becoming the second Nigerian team to win the WAFU B tournament.
- Emem Essien and Blessing Ilivieda have been key players for Edo Queens in this competition, with crucial goals in the semi final.
- A win in the final would make Edo Queens the first Nigerian team to win five consecutive matches in the WAFU B tournament.
