Edo Queens FC, representing Nigeria in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, embarked on their journey to Casablanca, Morocco, at 5:10 am this morning. The competition is set to run from November 6 to November 23, 2024. The team had previously arrived in Lagos on Wednesday before their final departure, fueled by the ambition to lift the coveted trophy. Hailing from Benin-City, Edo Queens FC is poised to face tough competitors in their group, including South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, Egypt’s FC Masar, and Ethiopia’s CBE. Their first match is scheduled against the Ethiopian team on November 10 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
Captain Efemweokiekie Osakpolor spoke passionately about the team’s goal during a press conference prior to their departure. She expressed unwavering determination to not only bring pride to their home state of Edo but also to make their supporters proud. Emphasizing their commitment, Osakpolor invoked the team’s faith and focus, stating, “By the grace of God, we are going to make not just the state proud, but also make you proud as well.” This sentiment reflects the team’s collective resolve as they prepare to compete at a high level.
Yusuf Alli, the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, provided a motivating message to the players, urging them to return with the trophy. He reassured the team that all necessary support and resources were in place to aid their success, drawing parallels with their previous victory in the WAFU Zone B championship. “Everything is set in place for us to go to Morocco and conquer, just like we did in Ivory Coast,” he stated, instilling confidence that logistical matters such as feeding would not pose any issues for the team in Morocco. His words reinforced the belief that a triumphant return with the trophy is not just a hope but a tangible goal.
Edo Queens FC earned their place in the CAF Women’s Champions League by claiming the WAFU B championship title. They achieved this milestone through a decisive 3-0 victory over Benin’s Ainonvi FC in the final held in August. This win marked a significant achievement for the team, allowing them to succeed Ghana’s Ampem Darkoa Ladies as champions of the WAFU B qualifiers. The triumphant campaign not only solidified their position on the continental stage but also served as a springboard for their aspirations in the upcoming tournament.
The aspirations of Edo Queens FC encompass a broader vision of elevating Nigerian women’s football on the international scene. Competing in the CAF Women’s Champions League presents an opportunity not only for exposure and experience but also for demonstrating the skill and talent present in Nigeria’s women’s football league. The team’s preparation and determination to succeed signal a promising future for the sport in the nation, as they aim to inspire younger generations of female footballers in the country.
As the team gears up for their inaugural match against CBE of Ethiopia, the focus remains firmly on their preparation, execution, and teamwork. The collaboration between the players, coaching staff, and the supportive backing from the Edo State Sports Commission exemplifies a unified effort aimed at achieving success on the continental stage. With high expectations set before them and the target of bringing the trophy back home, Edo Queens FC enters the competition with optimism and pride, representing not just their city but the aspirations of Nigerian women’s football on a broader scale.
