Last minute tackle between an Edo Queen and her SouthAfrican opponent
• Go all out against TP Mazembe and win tourney, he urges
By Kingsley Abavo in Benin
The Governor of Edo State Senator Monday Okpebholo has congratulated Edo Queens Football Club on their 2-1 victory over African champions Mamelodi Sundown Ladies of South Africa, and subsequent qualifications to the semifinals of the ongoing CAF Women Champions League in Casablanca, Morocco.
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Edo Queens came from behind to beat the CAF Women Champions League defending champions 2-1 on Saturday, 16 November, 2024 in their last group game and topped the group to reach the semifinals for the first time.
Impressed by the scintillating performance and incredible results posted by his girls, Governor Okpebholo called the team to have a direct conversation with them; inspiring them to do more, with a promise of huge rewards and red carpet reception for them on their return to the country with the trophy.
In the telephone conversation with the team on Sunday, 17th November, 2024, Governor Okpebholo encouraged the technical crew and players to continue in the high spirit and top form they displayed against the defending champions; Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies in the next match with TP Mazembe.
The Governor urged the team to make the State proud by going further to win the tournament for the first time and bring the honour back home.
“I am proud of you girls. Continue your good work and reward awaits you in Benin. Remain focused and disciplined.
“Beat your opponents and bring the cup home and I will be waiting to receive and honour you in Government House. Nigerians are also waiting to celebrate you!”
Responding on behalf of the team, the Head Coach, Moses Aduku and captain Efemweokikie Osakpolor expressed their appreciation and assured the Governor that they will do their best to win.
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To qualify for the semifinals of the tournament in Casablanca, Morocco, Emem Essien scored the equalizing goal for Edo Queens in the 95th minute to cancel M. Kgatiete’s 24th minute goal before Mary Mamudu’s sublime strike, five minutes later sealed victory for the Benin girls.
The Nigeria Women Premier League champions, Edo Queens began the tournament in Morocco with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Commercial Bank of Ethiopia with Emem Essien, Folashade Ijamilusi and Goodness Osigwe scoring for the team.
They settled for a goalless draw in their second match with Masar FC of Egypt before the 2-1 victory over Sundowns in the final group game.
