Benin’s Ainonvi FC and Nigeria’s Edo Queens have booked their spots in the final of the 2024 WAFU B CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers.
The thrilling semi-final matches, held at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire, have set the stage for a mouthwatering summit clash.
Ainonvi FC’s journey to the final was marked by a gritty 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso’s A.O Etincelle.
Despite an early setback with the injury of defensive stalwart Stephanie Zida, the Benin side weathered the storm and found the decisive breakthrough in the 84th minute.
Yasminath Djibril’s solo strike sealed the win and earned her the coveted Woman of the Match award.
Edo Queens, the Nigerian representatives, secured their place in the final with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over host club Inter D’Abidjan.
Suliat Abideen and Blessing Illivieda found the net for Edo Queens, while Adjoua Edwige Sandrine Niamien’s goal for the Ivorian side set up a nervy finish.
Edo Queens captain Suliat Abideen was named the Woman of the Match.
The final, scheduled for Friday, August 24, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two determined teams.
Ainonvi FC and Edo Queens will not only be vying for the WAFU B trophy but also a coveted spot in the prestigious CAF Women’s Champions League, a first-ever achievement for both clubs.
As the finalists gear up for the ultimate showdown, the third-place match between Inter D’Abidjan and A.O Etincelle on Thursday, August 23, will provide an opportunity for the losing semi-finalists to end their campaign on a high note.
CAF