Nigeria champions Edo Queens edge closer to historic CAF Women’s Champions League spot after win over Ivory Coast’s Inter FC

Edo Queens are one step away from securing their first-ever appearance in the CAF Women’s Champions League after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Inter FC of Ivory Coast, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigerian Women Football League (NWFL) champions booked their place in the final of the WAFU B zonal qualifiers with the triumph on Tuesday at Stade de la Paix, Bouake.

Edo Queens entered the semi-final with confidence, having topped Group B with an impeccable record.

The Benin City-based team showcased their dominance in the group stage, winning all their three matches and scoring nine goals without conceding.

They began their campaign with a 5-0 rout of AS Garde from Niger, followed by a convincing 3-0 win against Ghana’s Hasaacas Ladies. A narrow 1-0 victory over Omnisport Etincelle secured their position as group leaders.

In the semi-final clash against Inter FC, Edo Queens continued their impressive run, with Emem Essien giving the team an early lead.

Blessing Illivieda then doubled the advantage with a well-executed corner kick in the second half. Although Inter FC pulled one back late in the game, the Quens held firm to secure the win.

Edo Queens, who are chasing their maiden CAF Women’s Champions League qualification, will now face Benin Republic’s Ainonvi FC in the final.

The winner of this match will represent the WAFU Zone B in the preliminary stage of the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League in Cairo, Egypt.

Tuesday’s victory caps off a remarkable year for Edo Queens, who secured their first-ever NWFL Premiership title in 2024.