CAFWCL: Bayelsa Queens kick off WAFU B qualifiers with victory over Police Ladies

Nigerian Women Football League (NWFL) champions Bayelsa Queens kicked off their campaign for a return to the CAF Women’s Champions League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ghana’s Police Ladies in their opening Group B match of the WAFU B Qualifiers on Sunday at the Stade Charles Konan, in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire.

Bayelsa Queens came out with purpose and took the lead early in the 12th minute as striker Shakirat Moshood, displaying her predatory instincts, latched onto a headed pass and showed great composure to slot the ball past the goalkeeper and give her side the perfect start.

The Prosperity Girls looked to capitalize on their early advantage, and their efforts were rewarded in the second half. Substitute Emem Essien, who came on to provide fresh impetus, wasted no time in making her presence felt, doubling the lead for the Nigerian side in the 62nd minute.

However, Police Ladies pulled one back five minutes later when Mary Berko scored in the 67th minute, but Bayelsa Queens held firm to secure all three points.

The clash rekindled the traditional Nigeria-Ghana football rivalry as both sides battled for early dominance in Group B. The victory handed the Nigerian side an early advantage in their quest to reach the semifinals of the regional qualifiers.

Bayelsa Queens, who have reinforced their squad with some of the finest talents from the Nigerian Women’s Football League, are determined to progress beyond the group stage and secure a return to the continental showpiece.

Only the winner of the WAFU B Qualifiers will advance to the CAF Women’s Champions League later this year, joining champions from other regions across the continent in Africa’s most prestigious women’s club competition.

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