Bayelsa Queens midfielder Vera Samuel has praised her team’s collective determination and resilience following their hard-fought 2-1 win over Ghana’s Police Ladies in their opening match of Group B at the ongoing 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU-B Qualifiers.

 

The former Royal Queens star was instrumental in the Nigerian champions’ gritty victory, which saw goals from Shakirat Moshood and Emem Essien seal three crucial points in what many considered a heavyweight West African clash.

 

“The win was great because we take every match as a final,” Samuel said after the match.

“We played against a strong team, and I thank God for the victory. It felt good knowing we faced our equals and still came out on top.”

Samuel emphasized that the result was a true team effort, praising both starters and substitutes for staying locked in from start to finish.

 

“From the blast of the whistle, everybody was fully in the game until the final whistle. Even those who came off the bench followed the match closely and made an impact when they came on. The performance was a good one for every player.”

Looking ahead to their next fixture against Sam Nelly FC of Benin Republic, Samuel stressed the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating any opponent.

 

“Every team in this tournament means business. I wouldn’t say they are underdogs; we see them as equals. By God’s grace, we are coming out victorious.”

 

A victory in their next match will guarantee Bayelsa Queens a place in the semi-finals, putting them one step closer to returning to the CAF Women’s Champions League finals later this year.

 

The Prosperity Girls will be looking to build on their strong start as the WAFU-B qualifiers continue, with a growing sense of belief that they can reclaim regional dominance.