BY SAB OSUJI

Agnes Ohuche scored a second half brace to hand Giant Empress a deserved 2-0 win in the opening fixture of the 2023 Ifeanyi Chiejine Memorial Cup Championship at St Patrick's College football field, Asaba, Delta State, on Monday, 11 December, 2023, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

The 'Giants' were truly in impressive control of things despite Castmog Ladies of Abeokuta holding out firmly for a scoreless first half.

And there was no stopping the Giants once they turned on the screw in the second period.

In the second match of the day, Green Foot FC, Enugu, were held to a goaless draw by Prince Kazeem.

The 'Festival of football' in Asaba continued on the bright Monday afternoon with Mercy Ojewumi's clinical finish handing Papa Soccer FC, Lagos, a 1-0 win over Fortress FC, Benin.

Papa Soccer coach, Tunde Ogunbiyi, was full of joy following his team's win.

"I'm thrilled. Its always important to win your opening game in a tournament like this", Ogunbiyi said to Exclusivenews.com.ng.

Then came the big thriller of the afternoon, an Oriental Derby between reigning Anambra Women FA Cup holders, Awka Angels and their Imo Strikers counterparts.

The coach Nelly Orisakwe girls from the Arugo City were in emphatic control as scoring twice in the first 16 minutes.

Organisers confirmed that 14 teams drawn from across the country, are taking part in the week-long championship.

Seven matches are on offer each match day. The colourful opening ceremony of the Ifeanyi Chiejine Memorial Cup Championship, took place at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Monday evening.