Sunshine Queens FC head coach Rafiu Oseni has described his team’s 0-4 defeat to Nasarawa Amazons in the quarter-finals of the 2025 President Federation Cup as a valuable learning experience. Despite the heavy loss at the Akwa City Stadium, Oseni remains optimistic about the club’s primary goal: gaining promotion back to the elite Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL).
Oseni acknowledged that the Federation Cup served as essential preparation for the upcoming Championship playoffs. He explained that several key players were unavailable for the cup match but would strengthen the squad for the league campaign. “We have players in the squad who couldn’t participate in the Federation Cup, but they’ll be eligible for the Championship playoffs and will strengthen the team,” Oseni stated.
He praised the team’s resilience, highlighting that the youthful squad only trailed by one goal at halftime before lapses in concentration saw Nasarawa Amazons widen the scoreline. Oseni stressed the need to blend experience into the team and promised to address the identified weaknesses once the squad returns to Akure.
“Our focus remains clear promotion to the NWFL. The Federation Cup loss is just a learning curve. We’ll come back stronger,” Oseni concluded.
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Editorial
Sometimes, defeat teaches more than victory, and for Sunshine Queens, the Federation Cup exit may prove pivotal in their quest for promotion. Coach Rafiu Oseni’s positive outlook after the 4-0 loss to Nasarawa Amazons shows a mature understanding of football development especially when building a squad from scratch in just four months.
While some may view the heavy defeat as a setback, it’s crucial to recognise that the match offered an opportunity to test the team’s mettle against top-tier opposition. Oseni’s willingness to address the squad’s weaknesses and integrate more experienced players demonstrates his commitment to long-term growth rather than immediate results.
The Championship playoffs will be the ultimate test of Sunshine Queens’ progress, but if Oseni’s leadership remains consistent, the team could soon find themselves back in the NWFL. The defeat is not the end—it’s a lesson learned.
Did You Know?
- Sunshine Queens FC is one of the few women’s clubs in Nigeria with a strong grassroots development programme.
- Nasarawa Amazons, who defeated Sunshine Queens, are former NWFL champions, known for their physical and tactical prowess.
- Coach Rafiu Oseni has previously managed Sunshine Stars, the male counterpart of Sunshine Queens, making him well-versed in grassroots football.
- Sunshine Queens were relegated from the NWFL in 2023 and have been striving for a comeback ever since.
- The 2025 President Federation Cup marked the first time Sunshine Queens reached the quarter-finals since their relegation.
