NWFL congratulates Edo Queens on WAFU B Women’s Champions League win

The Nigeria Women Football League NWFL has extended its congratulations to Edo Queens Football Club for their remarkable triumph in the 2024 WAFU B Zonal Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire. Edo Queens demonstrated their superiority with an impressive 3-0 victory over Ainonvi FC of Benin Republic in the final, held in Abidjan.

Suliat Abideen opened the scoring in the 45+2 minute, followed by Emem Essien’s goal in the 59th minute, and an own goal from Elizabeth Ukandu in the 76th minute, securing the win and the coveted title for Edo Queens. This victory not only marked their dominance but also secured their place in the finals of the CAF Women’s Champions League.

Nkechi Obi, Chairperson of the NWFL, praised the team’s performance, stating, that Edo Queens’ victory is a testament to the growth and strength of women’s football in Nigeria. Their performance was inspiring, and they have made the entire nation proud with their hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship. Obi also highlighted the continued success of Edo Queens, mentioning their previous wins in the Sheroes Cup, Betsy Obaseki Cup, and NWFL Premiership titles.

She further commended the Edo State Government for its unwavering support and investment in women’s football, noting that this backing has been instrumental in the team’s ongoing success. Obi encouraged Edo Queens to remain focused as they prepare for the CAF Women’s Champions League finals, expressing confidence in their ability to challenge for the ultimate glory.

With this victory, Edo Queens are now setting their sights on becoming the first West African team to win the CAF Women’s Champions League, as they aim for more success in the competition’s fourth edition later this year.

Editorial

We celebrate Edo Queens’ incredible achievement in the 2024 WAFU B Zonal Champions League qualifiers. Their 3-0 victory against Ainonvi FC is not just a triumph for the team but a significant milestone for women’s football in Nigeria. Edo Queens have proven themselves on the international stage, demonstrating that they are a force to be reckoned with in African football. This win is a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and investment in the women’s game.

The journey to success is never easy, and Edo Queens have shown resilience and determination in their rise to the top. Their consistency in winning major competitions such as the Sheroes Cup, Betsy Obaseki Cup, and NWFL Premiership demonstrates a winning mentality that few can match. However, we believe their most significant asset is the backing of the Edo State Government, whose commitment to developing women’s football has played a crucial role in the team’s growth.

This victory should also inspire a renewed focus on the development of women’s football across Nigeria. Edo Queens’ success is a beacon of hope for many aspiring female footballers, proving that with the right support and opportunities, Nigerian clubs can dominate not only domestically but also on the international scene. As the team prepares for the CAF Women’s Champions League finals, we must support them wholeheartedly, knowing that their journey is not just about winning titles but about elevating the status of women’s football in Nigeria.

We believe Edo Queens have what it takes to go all the way in the CAF Women’s Champions League. Their performance in the WAFU B Zonal tournament is just the beginning of what promises to be a historic run. With the right focus, preparation, and determination, they can make history by becoming the first West African side to win the competition. As fans, we stand behind them, confident in their ability to achieve greatness.

Did You Know?

1. The WAFU B Women’s Champions League is part of the qualification process for the CAF Women’s Champions League, which started in 2021.
2. Edo Queens was founded in 1988 and is one of the most successful women’s football clubs in Nigeria.
3. The CAF Women’s Champions League is the premier club competition for women’s football in Africa, featuring top teams from across the continent.
4. The Betsy Obaseki Cup, which Edo Queens have won, is an annual tournament aimed at promoting women’s football in Nigeria.
5. The 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League will be the fourth edition of the competition, and Nigerian teams are aiming to secure their first title.