Bayelsa Queens, Nigeria’s representatives in the 2025 WAFU B Women’s Champions League, are poised to contend for a spot in the continental finals after an impressive run in the group stage. Dominating Group B with an unblemished record, they secured three victories, scoring nine goals and conceding only two. Their final group match, a resounding 4-1 victory over Benin’s Sam Nelly, cemented their top position and highlighted the team’s attacking prowess. Janet Akekoromowei’s brace in that match underscored her individual brilliance, while contributions from Shakirat Moshood and Alaba Olabiyi further solidified Bayelsa’s offensive dominance. The team’s strong performance throughout the group stage sets the stage for a challenging semi-final clash against Burkina Faso’s Union Sportive des Forces Armées (USFA).
Bayelsa Queens’ journey through the group stage showcased not only their attacking capabilities but also their defensive solidity. Their opening 2-1 victory against Ghana’s Police Ladies, followed by a commanding 3-0 win over ASKO of Togo, demonstrated their ability to control matches on both ends of the pitch. The recognition of three Bayelsa players – Chinyere Iheoma, Mary Aderemi, and Shakirat Moshood – in the Group Stage Best XI highlights the team’s balanced approach, combining attacking flair with organized defending. This recognition further emphasizes their status as a tournament favorite and underscores the individual talent within the squad.
The semi-final encounter against USFA, the runners-up in Group A, promises to be a stern test for Bayelsa Queens. USFA secured their spot in the knockout stage behind Ivorian champions ASEC Mimosas, demonstrating their resilience and competitive spirit. While Bayelsa enters the match as favorites, they are aware of the potential challenges posed by USFA, who narrowly advanced from a competitive group. The Burkinabè side’s determination and ability to compete against tough opponents will undoubtedly test Bayelsa’s resolve.
Bayelsa Queens approach the semi-final with a blend of confidence and caution. Captain Blessing Ilivieda emphasized the team’s preparedness, both physically and mentally, highlighting the weight of expectation they carry as representatives of Nigeria. Ilivieda’s words reflect a strong sense of national pride and the team’s commitment to performing at their best. The captain also stressed the importance of respecting every opponent, acknowledging the competitive nature of the tournament, and maintaining focus until the final whistle. This mindset underscores their understanding that complacency could be detrimental in a competition where small margins can make a significant difference.
The team’s defensive strength, having conceded only two goals throughout the group stage, has been a key factor in their success. Ilivieda praised the backline’s disciplined performance, emphasizing their adherence to instructions and their collaborative spirit. The defensive unit’s ability to work together, cover for each other, and maintain a strong collective effort provides a solid foundation for the team’s attacking players to flourish. This defensive solidity allows the likes of Moshood, Olabiyi, and Akekoromowei to focus on exploiting opportunities in the attacking third.
Looking ahead, the semi-final clash against USFA carries significant implications for Bayelsa Queens. Victory will secure their place in the final of the WAFU B Women’s Champions League, which also serves as the qualifying pathway to the prestigious 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League. Having reached the continental finals in 2022 and finished third in Morocco, Bayelsa Queens are driven by the ambition to return to Africa’s biggest stage and compete against the continent’s best. The semi-final represents a crucial step towards realizing this goal, and the team is determined to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of victory. The match against USFA, scheduled for 8 pm Nigerian time at the Stade du Lycée Scientifique, promises to be a captivating encounter between two determined sides vying for a place in the final and a chance to represent the WAFU B zone in the CAF Women’s Champions League.
