Edo Queens Aim for Regional Glory, Face Niger Side on Sunday

Edo Queens, the champions of the Nigeria Women Football League 2024, is set to face AS Garde FC from Niger Republic this Sunday in the CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU B qualifier. This tournament, in its fourth edition, serves as the WAFU B qualifying round for the CAF Women’s Champions League, with the winner representing the West African region in the 2024 edition.

Edo Queens, making their debut in the competition, are eager to start strong, which would enhance their chances of advancing from their group. With 14 new signings and a month-long training camp, the team, led by midfield maestro Emem Essien and captain Suliat Abideen, is focused on securing regional glory and restoring Nigeria’s status as a dominant force in West African women’s football.

The group also features strong contenders, including Hassacas of Ghana and AO Entincelles of Burkina Faso, making a winning start crucial for Edo Queens.

Editorial

We view Edo Queens’ participation in the CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU B qualifier as more than just a pursuit of a title. It’s an opportunity for the team to cement their place as leaders in West African women’s football. The commitment and preparation shown by the team, including bolstering their squad and intense training, reflect their determination to succeed on this regional stage. This tournament is not just about individual matches it’s about the broader goal of restoring Nigeria’s pride in women’s football, a task that requires focus, resilience, and strategic play.

Edo Queens’ debut in this competition marks a significant step for the team, as they aim to overcome the challenges posed by experienced teams like Hassacas of Ghana. The path to glory is not straightforward, but with strong leadership and a unified team spirit, Edo Queens can challenge the dominance of their rivals and secure a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League. We believe that the determination of players like Emem Essien and the collective effort of the team will be key to achieving this goal.

This qualifier represents a chance for Edo Queens to prove themselves, not just to their fans, but to the entire region. Their journey could inspire other Nigerian teams and solidify Nigeria’s reputation as a powerhouse in women’s football. As they take to the field, the hope is that their hard work and preparation will translate into success, allowing them to bring the regional trophy back to Nigeria.

Did You Know?

1. The CAF Women’s Champions League is the premier club competition in African women’s football, similar to the UEFA Women’s Champions League in Europe.
2. WAFU B West African Football Union Zone B consists of eight member countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Niger, Nigeria, Togo, and Mali, making it a highly competitive region.
3. Edo Queens’ participation in this qualifier is a historic moment as they aim to represent Nigeria at the continental level for the first time.
4. Ghana’s Hassacas Ladies are known for their dominance in WAFU B competitions, making them one of the toughest opponents in the region.
5. The Stade de la Paix in Bouake is a key venue for this tournament, hosting several matches including those involving Edo Queens, which will be critical for their progression.