Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — September 3, 2025
From the shores of the Niger Delta to the grand stage of West African football, Bayelsa Queens FC have carved a path defined by resilience, brilliance, and unwavering ambition. As they prepare to face host team ASEC Mimosas in the final of the WAFU B Women’s Champions League, the Nigerian champions stand on the brink of history — one win away from continental qualification and national pride.
Group Stage Dominance
Bayelsa Queens entered the tournament with quiet confidence and left Group B with loud statements. They finished with a perfect record — three wins from three matches, scoring nine goals and conceding just two. Their campaign featured:
- A thrilling 2–1 comeback against Police Ladies of Ghana
- A tactical 3–0 dismantling of ASKO of Togo
- A commanding 4–1 victory over Sam Nelly of Benin Republic, with Janet Akekoromowei netting a brace and earning Player of the Match honors
Their performances showcased not just attacking flair, but a disciplined defensive structure led by standout left-back Chinyere Iheoma, named in the Group Stage Best XI.
Semi-final Heroics
In the semi-finals, Bayelsa Queens faced a stern test against USFA of Burkina Faso. After conceding an early goal, the team responded with composure and fire. A pinpoint cross from Shakirat Moshood found Emem Essien, who headed in the equalizer. Then, just after the hour mark, Janet Akekoromowei struck again — her decisive goal sealing a 2–1 victory and sending the Prosperity Girls into the final.
Leadership Behind the Scenes
At the heart of this campaign is Pastor Robin Apreala, the chairman of Bayelsa Queens — a silent achiever whose leadership has been instrumental in the team’s rise. With a calm yet confident approach, Apreala has guided the team through challenges and triumphs, always emphasizing:
- Teamwork and dedication
- Appreciation for stakeholder support, especially from Governor Douye Diri and NWFL Chairperson Aisha Falode
- Unwavering belief in the team’s ability to win the championship
“Our goal is clear — to win the title and qualify for the CAF Women’s Champions League. The girls have shown character, and we’re proud of their journey,” Apreala stated ahead of the final.
Eyes on the Prize
Victory on Friday would not only crown Bayelsa Queens as WAFU B champions but also earn them a spot in the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco — a stage where they’ve already made their mark in 2022.
With stars like Akekoromowei, Moshood, Olabiyi, and Iheoma leading the charge, and a united squad driven by passion and purpose, Bayelsa Queens are poised to bring glory to Nigeria once again.
As the final whistle approaches, one thing is certain: this team is not just chasing a trophy — they’re chasing legacy.
