Edo Queens captain Deborah Odiagbe has insisted that the Nigerian champions will not allow their emphatic opening victory to create complacency as they prepare for a crucial encounter against ASEC Mimosas Ladies of Côte d’Ivoire in the WAFU-B Women’s Champions League Qualifying Tournament.
Sports247 reports that Edo Queens began their campaign in impressive fashion, securing a comprehensive victory over AS GNN of Niger. However, Odiagbe believes the result is already in the past and that the team must maintain its focus as the competition intensifies.
READ ALSO: Edo Queens Captain Odiagbe Deborah Targets WAFU-B Glory Ahead of AS GNN Clash | Sports247 Nigeria
“The first game has come and gone. We are ready for the next one,” Odiagbe told the media.
The skipper stressed that winning one match is not enough to secure the ultimate prize, insisting that Edo Queens must maintain their winning mentality throughout the tournament.
“One game can’t give us the trophy. We need to win all our matches, and we are prepared for any opponents,” she stated.
Edo Queens will face ASEC Mimosas in a crucial Group B fixture, with the Ivorian champions looking to recover from their opening defeat to Ampem Darkoa Ladies.
For Odiagbe, the team’s focus remains firmly on the pitch rather than the noise surrounding the tournament on social media.
“We are not focused on any shenanigans on social media. We are in full spirits to continue from where we started,” she said.
The captain also addressed questions surrounding team selection and players starting matches from the bench. She explained that being named among the substitutes should not be interpreted as a deliberate strategy, stressing that every member of the squad is capable of contributing to the team’s success.
“Starting from the bench isn’t like any strategy like that, but any players starting are all good enough to win for the team and the country,” she explained.
Her comments underline the unity within the Edo Queens camp as the Nigerian champions continue their pursuit of another WAFU-B title and qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League.
With the stakes rising, Odiagbe believes the team must remain disciplined, focused and hungry for victory.
The message from the Edo Queens captain is clear: the opening victory may have been impressive, but the trophy will only be won by maintaining the same intensity until the final whistle of the tournament.
