Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire — September 5, 2025
In a dramatic finale at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium, Asec Mimosas of Côte d’Ivoire clinched the title in the fifth edition of the WAFU Zone B CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers, edging past Nigeria’s Bayelsa Queens 8–7 on penalties after a fiercely contested 1–1 draw.
The match opened with early drama as Ani Prisca Diallo put the hosts ahead in the 5th minute. But Bayelsa Queens, the 2022 champions and current Nigerian Women’s Football League title holders, responded swiftly. Emem Esseien rose to the occasion with a powerful header in the 18th minute to level the score.
Despite relentless pressure from the Prosperity Girls, the Ivorian defense held firm through regulation and extra time. With the score still locked at 1–1 after 120 minutes, the match was decided from the spot. Missed penalties by Sefiat Idris and Sofiat Bankole proved costly for Bayelsa, while Nda Akissi Nadege N’Guessan missed for Asec — but the Ivoirians ultimately prevailed 8–7.
The victory secures Asec Mimosas the sole ticket to represent WAFU Zone B at the CAF Women’s Champions League, marking a historic moment for the Ivorian side.
Bayelsa Queens head coach Busari Hakeem reflected on the loss with grace:
“We came up with a plan to win the match, but we lost. We cannot win every game. I wish Asec Mimosas the best of luck as they represent the zone. We’ll regroup and come back stronger next season.”
Though the result was heartbreaking for Bayelsa Queens, their performance throughout the tournament reaffirmed their status as one of West Africa’s elite women’s football teams.
