Edo Queens Eye WAFU-B Revenge Against Ghana's Ampem Darkoa in Title Showdown

Edo Queens FC, the reigning champions of the Nigeria Women’s Football League, face a stern test today as they clash with Ghanaian champions Ampem Darkoa Ladies in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. This WAFU-B CAF Women’s Champions League qualifying final isn't just about lifting a trophy; it's about redemption and a coveted spot at the continental showpiece in South Africa later this year.

Both teams powered their way into the final after dominant semi-final performances on Wednesday. Edo Queens put on a show, dismantling Burkina Faso’s USFA FC with a resounding 5-1 victory. Across town, the formidable Ampem Darkoa Ladies, who have remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, defeated Benin Republic’s FC Dynamique 4-1.

The stage is set at the August 4 Stadium for a clash that's already familiar. This is the second time Edo Queens and Ampem Darkoa will meet in this competition. Their earlier encounter in the final Group B game saw the Ghanaian side edge out the Nigerians 2-1, handing Edo Queens their sole defeat so far. That loss is now a significant motivator for the Nigerian queens.

Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, is brimming with confidence. He's thrown down the gauntlet to his players, urging them to give their absolute best. "The girls are ready and good to go. Big task, no doubt, but we have the confidence that the cup is going back to Edo State in Nigeria," Enabulele stated, also extending his gratitude to Edo State Governor, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his steadfast support. He added, "All we need from our fans across the country is just prayers.

Edo is ready. We are not scared of the Ghanaian team. The spirit in camp is high; the players know that Nigerians expect them to deliver. And by the special grace of God, the trophy is going to Nigeria."

Captain Uroko Valentina echoed the chairman's sentiments, assuring Nigerians that Edo Queens are prepared to fight for the trophy. "It is God and hard work that… brought us this far. We are ready," she declared. "I will be the happiest person in Edo Queens to win the WAFU-B trophy for the second time. We are ready for war against the Ampem Darkoa Ladies of Ghana. It is a game of our lives."

Edo Queens have certainly made their mark offensively, boasting an impressive 16 goals so far in the tournament, making them the leading scorers. Their campaign kicked off with a dominant 7-0 thrashing of AS Garde Nationale of Niger Republic. They followed this with a solid 3-1 win against ASEC Mimosas of Côte d’Ivoire, before that crucial 2-1 defeat to Ampem Darkoa.

However, their semi-final performance proved they've learned from their mistakes and are ready to contend. Ampem Darkoa Ladies, on the other hand, will be looking to cap off their undefeated run with another victory over the Nigerian champions. The stakes are incredibly high, with the winner not only claiming the WAFU-B title but also the sole qualification slot for West Africa in the CAF Women’s Champions League.

For Edo Queens, this final represents more than just a match; it's a chance to reclaim their regional crown, settle a score, and once again prove their mettle on the continental stage.