Nigerian champions Edo Queens began their 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League campaign impressively, defeating Ethiopia’s CBE 3-0 in their Group B opener at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco. The team took control early, with Emem Peace scoring just five minutes into the game. Goals from Folashade Ijamilusi and substitute Goodness Osigwe in the second half secured the win for Moses Aduku’s side.
Despite Edo Queens’ early lead, CBE held strong in the first half, keeping the score at 1-0 at halftime. In the second half, however, Edo Queens raised their intensity. Super Falcons striker Ijamilusi doubled the advantage within ten minutes of play resuming, and Osigwe, another recent Super Falcons call-up, came off the bench to add a third, sealing a solid victory.
This win placed Edo Queens at the top of Group B, edging out Egypt’s Masar FC, who also had a strong start with a 1-0 win over defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Edo Queens are set to face Masar FC next on Wednesday, then will play Mamelodi Sundowns on November 16 at the same venue.
Edo Queens are the third Nigerian team to compete in this tournament, following Rivers Angels and Bayelsa Queens, with Bayelsa achieving Nigeria’s best finish, third place, in 2022. Coach Aduku has high hopes for the team, aiming to secure Nigeria’s first title. They’re assured $150,000 in participation fees, with additional prize money as they advance, including $600,000 for the champions.
