Bayelsa Queens FC of Yenagoa fulfilled their pre-match declaration by clinching the 2023 Federation Cup title in a thrilling encounter against their arch-rivals, Rivers Angels of Port Harcourt.
The championship match, held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, ended in a goalless draw at the end of regulation time, leading to a tense penalty shootout where Bayelsa Queens emerged victorious with a 4-2 scoreline.
Both Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels have been the sole representatives of Nigeria in the relatively new CAF Women’s Champions League tournament. However, it was Bayelsa Queens who enjoyed the upper hand in this clash, following an engaging 120 minutes of play.
This recent showdown marked the fourth meeting between the two teams this year, with Bayelsa Queens prevailing on previous occasions.
Two weeks prior to the Federation Cup final, Bayelsa Queens secured a 1-0 victory over Rivers Angels during the NWFL Super Six contest at the same venue. The girls from Port Harcourt sought vengeance but were unable to overturn their previous defeat.
Bayelsa Queens’ triumph in the Federation Cup final adds to their accomplishments as the bronze medalists in the 2022 CAF Women’s Champions League. Although they narrowly missed defending their 2023 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) title, they have now secured back-to-back victories on the continental stage.
The prestigious event in Asaba attracted notable dignitaries, including Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Chief Tonobok Okowa, Executive Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, and Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the NFF General Secretary. These esteemed guests provided their support and cheered on the teams throughout the exciting encounter.
Bayelsa Queens’ triumph over Rivers Angels in the Federation Cup final further solidifies their position as one of the prominent forces in Nigerian women’s football. Their success serves as a testament to their skill, determination, and ability to deliver under pressure. As celebrations ensue, both teams will now reflect on their performances and strategize for future encounters in the ever-evolving landscape of women’s football in Nigeria.
