Bayelsa Queens of Nigeria will contest the final of the WAFU B Women’s Champions League after overcoming USFA of Burkina Faso 2-1 in a tense semi-final encounter on Tuesday night in Abidjan.
The Nigerian champions, led by head coach Whyte Ogbonda, showed resilience and composure after falling behind early, booking a place in Friday’s final where they will meet hosts ASEC Mimosas of Côte d’Ivoire. The showpiece is scheduled for the Charles Konan Banny Stadium.
Fighting back after early setback
The semi-final got off to a dramatic start as USFA took the lead in the second minute. Comfort Yeboah stunned the Nigerian side when she fired home from close range, leaving Bayelsa Queens briefly rattled.
But the Women’s Football League champions responded positively. Just 13 minutes later, Emem Essien produced a fine equaliser, restoring parity and calming nerves in the Queens’ camp. The goal shifted momentum, allowing Ogbonda’s players to settle into their rhythm.
Akekoromowei delivers the winner
With the match finely balanced and both teams pushing forward, Bayelsa Queens seized their moment after the hour mark. Midfielder Seimeyeha Akekoromowei struck decisively in the 62nd minute, netting what would prove to be the winning goal.
The Nigerian side held their shape well in the closing stages, with goalkeeper Boma Alabo making key interventions to deny USFA a way back. The final whistle sparked jubilation among the Queens’ players and staff, who will now aim to bring the regional trophy home to Nigeria.
Coach Ogbonda praised his team’s determination in the face of adversity. “We knew it would not be easy after conceding so early, but the girls showed the right mentality. They fought hard, kept their composure, and delivered when it mattered most,” he said after the match.
Hosts ASEC in commanding form
Bayelsa Queens’ opponents in the final, ASEC Mimosas, demonstrated their attacking prowess by dismantling Ghana’s Police Ladies 4-1 in the other semi-final. Playing in front of a home crowd, the Ivorian side dominated proceedings, showcasing speed and creativity in the final third.
ASEC’s convincing win makes them a formidable opponent for the Queens, and with the backing of local supporters, they will enter the final brimming with confidence.
Police Ladies will now face Burkina Faso’s USFA in the third-place playoff, also set for Friday.
Nigerian pride on the line
For Bayelsa Queens, reaching the final is a testament to the growing strength of Nigerian women’s football. The club has established itself as a powerhouse in the NWFL, but regional success has often been elusive. A victory in Abidjan would not only crown them WAFU B champions but also secure a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League later this year.
The Nigerian representatives will take inspiration from their semi-final fightback, knowing they have the quality to trouble ASEC. Players like Essien, Akekoromowei, and forward Miracle Joseph will be key in unlocking the Ivorian defence.
The final also presents an opportunity for the Queens to stake a claim as one of Africa’s premier women’s clubs. Nigerian sides have historically excelled in continental competitions, and Bayelsa Queens will be eager to continue that legacy.
Looking ahead to Friday
The Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro is expected to be packed for the final. With ASEC enjoying home support and Bayelsa Queens bringing a reputation for resilience, the stage is set for an enthralling contest.
While ASEC will rely on their attacking flair, Bayelsa Queens will hope their blend of tactical discipline and clinical finishing proves decisive. Both sides are chasing glory, but for Bayelsa, the chance to carry the WAFU B crown back to Nigeria is a powerful motivation.
“We’ve come this far, and we are not leaving without the trophy,” Ogbonda declared. “The girls know what is at stake, and we are ready for ASEC.”
The winner will not only lift the regional trophy but also gain momentum heading into the CAF Women’s Champions League, where the stakes are even higher. For now, though, all eyes are on Friday’s clash, a battle between Nigeria’s best and Côte d’Ivoire’s finest.
