Bayelsa Queens Secure Narrow Win Over Police Ladies in CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU B Opener
Nigeria’s Bayelsa Queens kicked off their campaign in the CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU B qualifiers with a thrilling 2-1 triumph against Ghana’s Police Ladies in a match held in Côte d’Ivoire on Sunday, according to Soccernet.ng.
Teen Prodigy Shakirat Moshood Shines Early
The game’s breakthrough came courtesy of 17-year-old sensation Shakirat Moshood, who continues to build on her rising star status. Just 12 minutes into the contest at Stade Charles Konan Banny, Moshood received the ball near the penalty area, swiftly evaded her defender, and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot that found the back of the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Halftime scoreline
Bayelsa Queens FC 1-0 Police Ladies FC
12′ Shakirat Moshood ⚽ pic.twitter.com/MUpHNo7Wk2– Bayelsa Queens Fc (@Bayelsaqueensfc) August 24, 2025
Moshood’s performance echoed her impressive display at the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, where she netted four goals and provided an assist across four matches, underscoring her potential as one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents.
Bayelsa Queens Extend Lead Through Emem Essien
Maintaining their momentum into the second half, Bayelsa Queens doubled their advantage in the 62nd minute. Emem Essien, a forward with experience in the Super Falcons setup, expertly connected with a precise cross from the right flank, slotting the ball into the top corner and leaving the Ghanaian defense scrambling.
Bayelsa Queens second goal scorer
81′ Bayelsa Queens 2-1 Police Ladies pic.twitter.com/xpFivKRhYF– Bayelsa Queens Fc (@Bayelsaqueensfc) August 24, 2025
Although Police Ladies managed to reduce the deficit soon after, Bayelsa Queens demonstrated solid defensive organization and composure to preserve their lead until the final whistle.
Implications for Group A and Upcoming Fixtures
This victory marks a crucial start for Bayelsa Queens in Group A of the qualifiers, providing them with valuable points and confidence. Their next challenges include matches against Togo’s ASKO FC on August 27 and Benin Republic’s Sam Nelly on August 30, both of which will be pivotal in determining their progression.
Bayelsa Queens’ Legacy and Continental Ambitions
Known affectionately as the Prosperity Girls, Bayelsa Queens boast a rich history of success, having clinched the NWFL Premiership title six times under the guidance of coach Whyte Ogbonda. Their continental pedigree is equally impressive, having won the WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers in 2022 and securing a commendable third-place finish in the main tournament that same year.
With a squad blending youthful exuberance and seasoned expertise-exemplified by stars like Moshood and Essien-Bayelsa Queens are poised to be formidable contenders as they aim to return to the CAF Women’s Champions League proper and make a significant impact on the African stage.
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