Bayelsa Queens Rally to Stun USFA and Book WAFU B Final Spot

Bayelsa Queens staged a thrilling comeback on Tuesday night to defeat USFA of Burkina Faso 2-1 and advance to the final of the CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU Zone B qualifiers in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire.

The Prosperity Girls were rocked early when Comfort Yeboah capitalised on a defensive mix-up between Florence Alexandra and goalkeeper Monle Omini, firing USFA ahead in just the 2nd minute.

But the Nigerian champions responded with resilience. Emem Essien rose highest to head home an equaliser in the 15th minute, restoring belief before the break.

Coach Hakeem Busari’s tactical switches in the second half, including the introduction of Jennifer Oliver and Dooshima Tarnum, shifted the momentum firmly in Bayelsa Queens’ favour. The pressure finally told when Janet Akekoromowei—later named Player of the Match—smashed in the decisive goal in the 62nd minute.

“We deserved the win. My players came out strong from the first half, creating a lot of opportunities, even though our opponents also had their moments,” Busari told reporters afterwards.

The result means Bayelsa Queens will face hosts Côte d’Ivoire in Friday’s final, with both teams staying in the same hotel—a twist that adds spice to the contest.

Victory on Friday would seal Bayelsa Queens a place in the CAF Women’s Champions League proper, as they continue their push to return to Africa’s biggest stage in women’s club football.