Edo Queens’ Miracle Usani Makes CAF Women’s Champions League Best XI

Miracle Usani of Edo Queens FC has been named in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League Best XI, becoming the sole representative from her team. The list, released by the Confederation of African Football CAF, honours the standout players of the tournament held in Morocco.

Usani, playing as a left-back, impressed the CAF Technical Study Group with her performances throughout the competition. The team selection process involved detailed analysis by football experts, coaches, and technical advisors.

The Best XI features four players from champions TP Mazembe, four from debutants FC Masar, two from runners up AS FAR, and one from Edo Queens. The line-up reflects the top talents in the competition, highlighting exceptional individual contributions.

The full Best XI includes:

Goalkeeper
Habiba Emad Sabry (FC Masar)

Defenders
Miracle Usani (Edo Queens)
Shadia Nankya (FC Masar)
Aisha Nantongo (FC Masar)
Vukulu Belange (TP Mazembe)

Midfielders
Marline Kasaj (TP Mazembe)
Sanaa Mssoudy (AS FAR)
Sandrine Nyonkuru (FC Masar)

Forwards
Doha El Madani (AS FAR)
Merville Kanjinga (TP Mazembe)
Lacho Marta (TP Mazembe)

Usani’s inclusion underscores her vital role in Edo Queens’ campaign and is a milestone for the club.

Editorial

Miracle Usani’s selection in the CAF Women’s Champions League Best XI is a proud moment for Edo Queens and a testament to the growing impact of Nigerian players on the international stage. Her inclusion is not just an individual achievement it reflects the strides Nigerian women’s football is making despite challenges in funding and visibility.

For us, Usani’s recognition highlights the importance of investing in women’s football. Consistent development, better facilities, and increased exposure could see more players like Usani emerge from Nigeria. Her journey can inspire young girls across the country to dream big and work hard to achieve global recognition.

Furthermore, CAF’s acknowledgement of talent from diverse teams, such as Edo Queens, showcases the evolving competitiveness of African women’s football. However, leagues like the Nigerian Women’s Football League NWFL must receive adequate support to continue producing top talents.

Edo Queens and other clubs must seize this moment to advocate for more significant investment in their programmes. Usani’s success story should act as a rallying cry for stakeholders to prioritise women’s football and help it thrive both domestically and internationally.

Did You Know?

1. Edo Queens’ Legacy Edo Queens is one of the oldest women’s football clubs in Nigeria, with a strong focus on developing homegrown talent.
2. CAF Women’s Champions League The tournament was launched in 2021, making it a relatively new platform for showcasing Africa’s best women’s teams.
3. Nigeria’s Influence Nigeria is one of the most successful nations in African women’s football, boasting a record number of Women’s Africa Cup of Nations titles.
4. TP Mazembe’s Dominance TP Mazembe has quickly become a powerhouse in African women’s football, clinching the title in this year’s competition.
5. Women’s Football Growth FIFA reports that women’s football is one of the fastest-growing sports globally, with increasing participation and viewership each year.