Former champions Bayelsa Queens showcased character and quality on Tuesday as they fought from behind to seal a 2-1 victory over Burkina Faso’s USFA in the semifinals of the 2025 WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast.
The Nigerian side, nicknamed the Prosperity Girls, are now on the brink of continental qualification once again, just three years after lifting the regional crown in 2022.
Early Setback for the Nigerians
Bayelsa endured a nightmare start when, barely two minutes into the game, Comfort Yeboah punished a defensive lapse between Florence Alexander and goalkeeper Monle Omini. The USFA forward capitalized on the mix-up and calmly lobbed the ball into an empty net, silencing the Nigerian supporters.
Shakirat Magic Inspires Equaliser
Despite the early shock, the Prosperity Girls responded with urgency. In the 15th minute, midfielder Shakirat Moshood sparked the comeback by winning the ball high up the pitch, dancing past three defenders before laying off a perfect cross to Emem Essien, who nodded home the equaliser.
The goal lifted Bayelsa’s spirits and shifted momentum. Alaba Olabiyi and Vera Samuel began to control possession, dictating the tempo and pinning the Burkinabé side deep in their own half.
Akekoromowei Delivers the Winner
The decisive moment came in the 62nd minute. A loose ball fell kindly to Seimeyeha Akekoromowei, and the forward wasted no time unleashing a thunderous strike from the edge of the box. The effort flew past the helpless goalkeeper, sending Bayelsa bench into wild celebrations.
It was yet another crucial contribution from Akekoromowei, who has been a standout throughout the tournament. Her performance earned her the Player of the Match award for the second time, further cementing her reputation as one of West Africa’s emerging brightest young talents.
With this win, Bayelsa Queens remain unbeaten in the qualifiers and now advance to face ASEC Mimosas of Ivory Coast in Friday’s final. The Ivorian champions booked their place earlier with a commanding 4-1 victory over Ghana’s Police Ladies, becoming the first Ivorian club to reach this stage of the WAFU B competition.
What is at Stake
The winner of Friday’s final will not only lift the regional title but also secure a ticket to the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League. Beyond that, a spot at the FIFA Women’s Club World Cup and the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup is potentially on the line, offering Bayelsa Queens the chance to test themselves against the very best in global women’s football.
For Bayelsa, who finished third at the continental finals in Morocco three years ago, victory would mark a triumphant return to Africa’s biggest stage.
