Bayelsa Queens’ Quest for WAFU B Glory and Continental Dominance
Bayelsa Queens, the Nigerian women’s football powerhouse, stands on the cusp of reclaiming their regional supremacy as they prepare to face Ivorian champions ASEC Mimosas in the final of the 2025 WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers. The highly anticipated clash, scheduled for Friday in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, promises a thrilling encounter between two of West Africa’s most formidable teams. Bayelsa Queens, having tasted continental success in 2022, are determined to etch their name in gold once again and secure their return to the prestigious CAF Women’s Champions League.
Their journey to the final has been a testament to their resilience and attacking prowess. In a gripping semi-final encounter against Burkina Faso’s USFA, Bayelsa Queens showcased their never-say-die spirit, rallying from a goal down to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory. Emem Essien’s equalizer and Seimeyeha Akekoromowei’s thunderous second-half strike propelled the Nigerian side to the final, maintaining their unbeaten streak in the competition. Their remarkable performance has ignited hopes of replicating their 2022 triumph, fueled by the ambition of making a significant impact on the continental stage.
ASEC Mimosas, buoyed by the fervent support of their home crowd, represents a formidable obstacle in Bayelsa Queens’ pursuit of glory. The Ivorian champions have stormed through the tournament, displaying their dominance with convincing victories in each of their matches. Their impressive 2-1 win against AS GNN of Niger, followed by a resounding 3-0 triumph over USFA and a commanding 4-1 semi-final victory against Ghana’s Police Ladies, underscores their credentials as a force to be reckoned with. As the first Ivorian team to reach the WAFU B final, ASEC Mimosas is determined to make history on home soil.
The final serves as a platform for Bayelsa Queens to not only reaffirm their regional dominance but also contribute to the growing stature of Nigerian women’s football. Captain Blessing Ilivieda, despite being sidelined due to health concerns, has emphasized the team’s unwavering commitment to bringing honor to their nation. She highlighted the instrumental role of the Bayelsa State government and football officials in motivating the team, fostering a belief that they can achieve greatness. Ilivieda’s absence on the field has not diminished her leadership, as she continues to inspire her teammates from the sidelines, sharing her experience and urging them to embrace the joy of lifting the coveted trophy.
The significance of reaching another final extends beyond regional bragging rights. It symbolizes Bayelsa Queens’ consistency and unwavering dedication to excellence. For Ilivieda and her teammates, it is a testament to their belief that with focus and commitment, any height is attainable. Victory in the final would not only secure a return to the CAF Women’s Champions League but also keep alive the dream of participating in the FIFA Women’s Club World Cup and the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, elevating Nigerian women’s football to new heights on the global stage.
The clash between Bayelsa Queens and ASEC Mimosas promises to be a captivating spectacle of skill, determination, and tactical prowess. With both teams vying for regional supremacy and a ticket to the continental stage, the stakes are incredibly high. The outcome of this encounter will not only determine the WAFU B champion but also shape the landscape of women’s football in West Africa, potentially paving the way for a Nigerian or Ivorian representative to make a significant impact on the global stage.
The echoes of Bayelsa Queens’ previous continental success resonate deeply within the team, reminding them of the heights they can reach. Their journey back to the WAFU B final, marked by resilience, teamwork, and unwavering determination, has positioned them as strong contenders for the title. As the final whistle approaches, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown, with both Bayelsa Queens and ASEC Mimosas eager to etch their names in the annals of West African football history. The victor will not only claim regional bragging rights but also embark on a journey towards continental glory, carrying the hopes and dreams of their nation on their shoulders.
