Plateau United Queens delivered an impressive performance, claiming the runner-up position in the inaugural Girls Play Sports Football Tournament. The tournament, which featured 61 teams from across Nigeria, showcased the emerging talent in women’s football, with 40 teams representing the Southern Conference and 21 from the Northern Conference.
The final saw Plateau United Queens face Cats Ladies in a thrilling contest. Plateau United took an early lead with a goal from Agnes Otata, assisted by Rahab Thomas. However, Cats Ladies turned the game around in the second half with two stunning free-kicks from Anyanwu Ebube, securing a 2-1 victory.
Despite the defeat, Plateau United Queens showed resilience and skill, earning the respect of fans and officials alike. Their strong performance throughout the tournament has positioned them as key contenders in Nigerian women’s football.
The event, which was attended by scouts and officials from the Nigeria Football Federation NFF, offered a platform for young players to be recognized for national teams. Plateau United Queens received one million naira as a reward for their efforts, while the winners, Cats Ladies, took home two million naira.
Editorial
The performance of Plateau United Queens in the Girls Play Sports Football Tournament speaks to the growing potential of women’s football in Nigeria. While the Cats Ladies may have lifted the trophy, the true victory lies in the spotlight placed on grassroots talent. Plateau United Queens showed determination, teamwork, and promise, setting a high standard for future tournaments.
As supporters of women’s football, we must acknowledge the significance of tournaments like this one. They provide invaluable opportunities for young female players to showcase their abilities on a national stage. It’s crucial that more investment and attention are directed toward the development of women’s football at the grassroots level. The involvement of national scouts indicates the importance of these events in shaping the future of Nigerian football.
The efforts of organizers like Mrs. Ayomidiran, who continue to champion the cause of women’s sports, must be commended. The dedication to growing the sport, as well as the financial rewards offered to the teams, sets an encouraging precedent for future competitions.
We believe that with consistent support from both the public and private sectors, Nigerian women’s football will continue to rise. Plateau United Queens have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with, and we look forward to seeing their continued progress in the years to come.
Did You Know?
- The Girls Play Sports Football Tournament aims to promote grassroots women’s football in Nigeria and uncover hidden talent.
- Plateau United Queens are one of the top women’s football teams in Northern Nigeria.
- Women’s football in Nigeria is governed by the Nigeria Women Football League NWFL, which organizes the top tier league for female players.
- Cats Ladies, the champions of the tournament, are a prominent women’s football team with a strong track record in local competitions.
- The prize money in the Girls Play Sports Football Tournament highlights the increasing financial incentives in women’s football across Nigeria.
