Bayelsa Queens Cruise into WAFU B Women’s Champions League Semi-Finals
Nigeria’s Bayelsa Queens have emphatically secured their spot in the semi-finals of the 2025 WAFU B Women’s Champions League, following a dominant 3-0 victory against ASKO of Togo. This win, their second in as many games, propels the six-time Nigerian Women’s Football League champions into the knockout stages with a game to spare. The match, played at the Stade du Lycée Scientifique in Ivory Coast, showcased Bayelsa Queens’ resilience and attacking prowess.
The first half of the encounter was a tightly contested affair, with both teams struggling to establish a clear rhythm. Bayelsa Queens’ midfield, usually vibrant and dynamic, appeared somewhat subdued, forcing much of their play to the flanks. ASKO, though largely contained, threatened sporadically through occasional defensive lapses from their Nigerian counterparts. Despite the cagey opening period, Bayelsa Queens maintained their composure, heading into the break with the scoreline still goalless.
The second half, however, witnessed a dramatic shift in momentum. Just two minutes after the restart, Bayelsa Queens’ persistence finally paid off. ASKO defender Oumou Bani, under intense pressure, inadvertently turned the ball into her own net, breaking the deadlock and giving the Nigerian champions a crucial lead. This breakthrough ignited a spark in Bayelsa Queens, who gained confidence and began to dictate the tempo of the match.
With their attacking machinery now fully revved up, Bayelsa Queens continued to press forward, and their efforts were duly rewarded with two further goals. Alaba Olabiyi doubled their advantage in the 53rd minute with a well-taken strike, further cementing Bayelsa Queens’ control over the game. Shakirat Moshood, who had opened the scoring in their previous match against Police Ladies, added the finishing touch in the 80th minute, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 victory for the Nigerian side.
The win not only showcased Bayelsa Queens’ clinical finishing in attack but also highlighted their improved defensive solidity. They managed to keep their first clean sheet of the tournament, indicative of a more cohesive and disciplined defensive performance. Bunmi Oladeji, despite a few minor errors, was a resolute presence at the back, while new signing Emem Essien continued to integrate seamlessly into the squad with another industrious display.
The standout performer for Bayelsa Queens, however, was midfielder Vera Samuel, who was deservedly awarded the Player of the Match accolade. Her energy, vision, and ability to link play were instrumental in Bayelsa Queens’ dominance, especially after they took the lead. Samuel controlled the tempo of the game effectively, ensuring that her team maintained their attacking momentum while also stifling ASKO’s attempts to get back into the match.
Head coach Whyte Ogbonda, who had earlier acknowledged the challenging nature of the tournament, will be undoubtedly pleased with his team’s impressive progress. With two consecutive wins and six points in Group B, Bayelsa Queens have emerged as strong contenders to return to the CAF Women’s Champions League finals. Their third-place finish in Morocco three years ago serves as a testament to their capabilities on the continental stage.
Bayelsa Queens will face Sam Nelly of Benin in their final group match on Saturday. While the outcome of this match will not affect their qualification for the semi-finals, it provides an opportunity for the team to maintain their winning momentum and fine-tune their strategies ahead of the knockout stages. The Nigerian champions are now fully focused on reclaiming the WAFU B regional title they last won in 2022. Their impressive performances thus far suggest that they have the potential to go all the way and make a significant impact in the continental championship. The team’s blend of experience, youthful exuberance, and tactical acumen, coupled with their current form, makes them a formidable force to be reckoned with.
