Bayelsa Queens FC, fondly known as the Prosperity Girls, pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat USFA of Burkina Faso 2-1 in the semi-finals of the WAFU Zone B CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers, played at the Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire.

 

The Nigerians had a nightmare start when Comfort Yeboah capitalized on a defensive lapse to put USFA ahead in just the 2nd minute, sending shockwaves through the Bayelsa bench.

 

But Bayelsa Queens responded swiftly. In the 15th minute, Emem Essien rose highest to meet a well-placed cross and nodded home the equalizer with a clinical header into the bottom corner, restoring parity before halftime.

 

The match-winner came in the 62nd minute courtesy of Janet Akekoromowei, whose composed strike from just inside the box left the USFA goalkeeper rooted. Akekoromowei’s dominant display earned her the Player of the Match award.

 

After the match, Bayelsa Queens head coach Hakeem Busari praised his team’s resilience and attacking intent:

 

“We started very strong, created chances, and even though we went behind early, the girls showed great character. This victory is well-deserved.”

 

The win sets up a mouthwatering final clash on Friday against ASEC Mimosas, the host club, who will have the home crowd advantage. Interestingly, both teams are currently lodged at the same hotel — a detail that adds a layer of intrigue and tension ahead of the showdown.

 

Victory in Friday’s final would see Bayelsa Queens book their ticket to the CAF Women’s Champions League tournament proper — a goal that now lies just one match away.