Kogi United, Confluence Queens carry out major management, technical reshuffling

 

The management of Kogi United and Confluence Queens have announced a major shakeup in the administration and technical departments of both clubs in a bid to achieve the desired result in the coming football season. 

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the board for both teams, Mallam Abdulmalik Issa, Mr. Olachene Itodo has been announced as the new Team Manager of Kogi United replacing Mr. Ibrahim Tijani. 

Mr. Itodo was until his latest appointment the Coordinator of the club's feeder team. 

Mr. Tijani has now been appointed as the Coordinator for both Kogi United and Confluence Queens.

The management has also confirmed the appointment of Mr. Joseph Oboh as the substantive Secretary of Confluence Queens. Mr. Oboh has been on acting capacity since last season. 

In the technical department, Coach Musa Abubakar has been drafted to Confluence Queens where he will be assisting the Technical Adviser, Sabo Okala.

Former Super Falcons' defender, Ester Micheal will act as the Assistant and Trainer for the Queens with Jimoh Abdulazeez coming as the new Goalkeeper trainer for the Queens.

Moving in the opposite direction is Bestman Ossai as the new Goalkeeper trainer for Kogi United. 

In another development, Coach Muhammed Yusuf has been elevated to the post of Head Coach of Kogi United. 

He will be in charge of the club pending a new Technical Adviser be appointed for the Confluence State club. 

He will be assisted by Abdul Bello who has been deployed from Confluence Queens. 

Veteran women's football specialist, Mr. Moses Bako has been engaged as the consultant for Confluence Queens while Mr. Aranka Timothy will head the Scouting unit of the club. 

Mallam Issa congratulated the new appointees and the redeployed officials just as he charged them to bring their wealth of experience to bear for the clubs to achieve greater successes in the coming season. 

Kogi United missed out on promotion to the Nigeria National League, NNL last season while Confluence Queens finished in an undesirable position in the last Nigeria Women's Football League, NWFL season.

Governor Fubara rewards Rivers Angels with #25 million for President Federation Cup success

 

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has rewarded Rivers Angels with a sum of 25 million naira (N25,000,000) for their victory in the Women's President Federation Cup finals. 

The announcement was made during a grand reception for Rivers State sportsmen and women who brought glory to the state, held at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

Three players who won individual awards also received cash rewards: Blessing Okpe (Most Valuable Player) - 2.5 million naira, Agatha Thompson (Best Goalkeeper) - 2.5 million naira, and Morufa Ademola (Best Goalkeeper in the Super Six) - 2.5 million naira. 

Governor Fubara promised continuous support for the team to achieve more success and bring glory to Rivers State.

Rivers Angels defeated Naija Ratels to win the women's President Federation Cup trophy.

 The reception also honored other sports teams and individuals who excelled in various competitions.

Here is the breakdown of the rewards:

- Rivers United U-17 boys - 30 million naira

- Rivers Hoopers - 25 million naira

- Cycling team - 5 million naira

- Special Sports Athletes - 10 million naira

- Hockey team - 10 million naira

- Table Tennis - 5 million naira

- Judo - 3 million naira

- Chess - 5 million naira

- Supporters club - 20 million naira

Enugu Rangers shake hands with Green Foot Ladies to develop women's football in Nigeria

 

In a bid to encourage development of women's football in Enugu State and Nigeria, newly crowned champions of Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, Enugu Rangers have entered into partnership with Green Foot Ladies. 

In a statement released by the Flying Antelopes on Tuesday, the collaboration will also encourage giving exposure to budding talents among young female footballers in the state. 

The statement added that the relationship will also bring about more meaningful improvements to both teams. 

"We are glad to announce an exciting new technical partnership between Rangers International FC Enugu and Green Foot Ladies Enugu. 

"Through this collaboration, Rangers International FC will provide comprehensive support to Green Foot Ladies to foster the growth and development of women's football in our community. 

"This partnership underscores our commitment to promoting inclusivity, excellence, and opportunity in the sport we love. Together, we aim to nurture talent, enhance skills, and elevate the profile of women's football in Enugu and beyond.

"Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this promising journey together!," the statement read. 

The collaboration will also help Rangers fulfill the requirements of Confederation of African Football, CAF that every participating clubs in its competition must have a women's team. 

NWFL: Ifeoma, Whyte sure of Rivers Angels' win over Bayelsa Queens

 

Rivers Angels Football Club will on Wednesday lock horns with their perennial rivals, Bayelsa Queens in Port Harcourt. 

The Jewel of Rivers, who currently lead Group B standing, with 24 points, two points above the Restoration Ladies will be hoping to maintain the lead after this mid-week encounter which automatically seals the team's ticket to the Super Six finals.

A win over the Restoration Girls will ensure the Jewel Of Rivers go five-point clear at the summit of Group B and the Jewels of Rivers assistant captain, Polinus Ifeoma, believes it is achievable.

"We are prepared for the match, we know it's a big game on Wednesday," she started. "We played draw with them in the first stanza, and we know they're coming here with full force, but myself and my girls are ready for Bayelsa Queens."

Polinus also dismissed the issue of pressure in their camp but maintained that the team will give their best to ensure they seal the NWFL Premiership Super Six ticket on Wednesday. 

"There is no pressure at all, I'm sure of victory at the end on Wednesday. It's a big derby in the Nigeria Women Football League Premiership, I can't predict the scoreline, but at the end, we are coming out victorious."

Midfielder Edward Tejiri echoed her teammates' sentiments, stating: "We are ready for the game on Wednesday, we believe with love and unity in our team, we would conquer on Wednesday.

"There is no pressure. We just have to motivate ourselves and play on Wednesday. It's a big game, I can't predict, but I know with God, we would conquer."

Having won the Rivers State FA Cup recently, Coach Whyte Ogbonda believes the match was a good preparatory match for his girls ahead of the big showdown against the 2022 champions. 

Whyte further said that he expects a tough match against Bayelsa Queens, but his team is ready to nick the win.

"We are playing Bayelsa Queens on Wednesday. This is the second to the last match in the regular season before the Super Six. I will say that Rivers Angels is well prepared," he said.

"The match will go a long way to help the team qualify for the Super Six, we played FA Cup match during the weekend and I will say the match was part of our preparation for the match on Wednesday.

"We are expecting a very strong and good fight from Bayelsa Queens on Wednesday. They forced us to a 1-1 draw in Yenagoa in the first stanza, I think they will come out to ensure it doesn't repeat again but we are prepared to ensure we get the victory over them."

The last time both sides met during the first stanza in Yenagoa, it ended 1- 1, with Motunrayo Ezekiel the scorer for Rivers Angels.

Sheroes Cup light up Abuja as 12 teams confirm participation

Organisers of the Sheroes Cup have revealed that the 2023 Sheroes Cup is scheduled to kick-off October 7, 2023 in Abuja.

Already, 12 clubs have confirmed their participation and are expected to take part when the top flight level of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) gets underway, which also serves as pre-season tournament

The participating clubs include Adamawa Queens FC, Bayelsa Queens FC, Confluence Queens FC, Dannaz Ladies FC, Delta Queens FC, Edo Queens FC, Ekiti Queens FC, Naija Ratels FC, Nasarawa Amazons FC, Rivers Angels FC, Royal Queens FC and Sunshine Queens FC.

President, Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF), Barr. Paul Edeh, while disclosing this in a press statement on Tuesday, said this year's football event would be remarkably dedicated to highlight and celebrate the achievements of Nigeria women who are making the country proud globally. 

Tagged; 'Beyond Rhetoric To Action', the RSDF boss said the soccer tournament which is at its sixth edition will also serve as veritable avenue for top teams across Nigeria to prepare themselves before the regular season kicks off in November 2023.

Talking about the essence of the theme for the competition in 2023, Barr. Edeh said, "The contribution of  women and their giant strides and impactful contribution in national development has continued to shape the world positively in the face of the daunting challenges they face in our society. 

"This is why we have carefully chosen the theme for the 2023 Sheroes Cup, which we hope will inspire a paradigm shift in the way we treat women in society.

"The Sheroes Cup Pre-Season Tournament started in 2019 with the sole aim of preparing interested teams for their respective league seasons across Africa. This year’s edition, which is the sixth since its inception, is coming with a bigger advantage to participating teams, which will enhance the preparation of the various teams playing in the NWFL Premiership after a very long break from the field of play. 

"This year’s edition, like the 2022 edition, will see each team playing a minimum of 5-8 games in preparation for the new league season. Two teams with the highest points from group A and B  will qualify to the semi-finals, third place, and final.

"The assurances we are giving all the participating teams is that officiating in the tournament will be equal to none as we are collaborating with the NFF and its Referees Committee to ensure that the officiating is in line with the laws of the game. 

"The winner of the Sheroes Cup 2023 and first runner-up will be entitled to trophies and medals. The third place will be entitled to medals only. All the participating teams are expected to be given brand new jerseys, balls, and other logistics support" 

From 2022, Sheroes Cup, after transforming from Flying Officers Cup, the tournament has been segmented into two participation periods annually, with clubs at the NWFL Championship tier taking their turns on a separate arrangement from the Premiership clubs.

The maiden edition for the Championship clubs happened earlier this year with Imo Strikers' emerging winners.

Previously, Edo Queens, Bayelsa Queens, FC Robo Queens, and Delta Queens lifted the Sheroes Cup diadem in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 editions respectively.

The current edition is scheduled to last between October 7 and 16, 2023, while the participating teams are expected to arrive October 5, with the draws slated the following day. 

  

Sunshine Queens are ripe for Women Premier League's return - Otunba Ologunloluwa assures

 

Plans are in top gear to see Sunshine Queens make a swift return to the Nigeria Women Football League, NWFL Premiership at the forthcoming NWFL Championship playoffs. 

The second tier league of Nigerian Women's league will coming up in July with yet to be announced venue where clubs will be jostle for tickets to gain promotion to the elite women league in Nigeria. 

Ondo State Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Otunba Dele Ologunloluwa disclosed the plans for the Owena Queens on Wednesday in an exclusive interview monitored on popular WhatsApp platform called Family United by Football, FUBF. 

He noted that the government was not happy with the club's relegation the previous season but has provided needed incentives and logistics to make a swift return back to elite division. 

"Sunshine Queens are very ripe to play in the Championship, we are preparing them to make sure they triumph and get the ticket back to the Premier League where they belong. Its unfortunate they dropped to lower division last season but we won't allow that happen again," he said.

On the plan to discover more talents in other sports, the vibrant Sports Commissioner disclosed that the Ondo State Sports Festival will be coming anytime soon with the bill to have Ondo State Sports Trust Fund established almost sail through at the Legislative house. 

"One of the proposals I made to the State cabinet is to our own State Sports Festival and it was approved and will be coming up any moment from now.

"I believe doing that will help us to fish out more talents that are abound in the state especially in the grassroots.

"We are also harnessing talents from schools through their inter house sports, we sent our coaches there to identify them, monitor them and later bring them together for proper training," he said. 

Otunba Dele Ologunloluwa however reassured that the State would raise a strong Team Ondo that will be among the top five States in the next National Sports Festival just as he commended the sports stakeholders in the state for their supports on the successes achieved so far.

NWFL Super Six: Another positive scorecard of Delta State with excellent organization

 

Asaba, the capital of Delta State is agog with activities as the Nigeria Women Football League Super Six kicked off in style. The tournament, which is hosted by the Delta State Government was moved back to begin earlier than scheduled but the Government has proved to be equal to the task. 

The bright look of the Stephen Keshi Stadium has been of interest to enthusiasts. The first step in getting this tournament organized was putting the facility in top shape. 

Before the opening game of the tournament between Rivers Angels and FC Robo, it rained and kick-off was temporarily delayed.  Interestingly, after the downpour, the pitch became just good enough for football, glittering and water free. 

The State's organization of the tournament has been amazing and the ladies are having a good time in Asaba, playing on a good surface and in a secure environment. 

The organisers have also provided alternative training pitches for the different teams and this allows them to train without pressure on the main pitch. These pitches are the Model Technical Pitch, Master Care Group of Schools and the Scotch Court Pitch. 

The Delta State Government have once again shown themselves to be worthy hosts and have sent a signal out that they are still ready to host even bigger fixtures, like national team games and tournaments, with this excellent organization of the NWFL Super Six.

Paulina Ali wants total focus from Naija Ratels as NWPL resumes for final phase

 

Naija Ratels begin a crucial month for the season with the visit of Seven time NWFL Premiership Champions Pelican Stars to the Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja on Wednesday.

The 'One Day At A Time' Ladies lost narrowly to the 'Ayade' Ladies in Calabar three weeks ago, through a late penalty kick scored by Bella Obioma.

Clearly, still reeling from that 1-0 defeat in Calabar, Naija Ratels are keen on returning to winning ways as they host the team from Calabar in what promises to be a  mouth-watering encounter.

Start striker Olamide Adugbe, who missed the last game, should be ready for this game, while the duo of Bunmi Oladeji and Motunrayo Ezekiel, who have already missed a chunk of fixtures due to national team assignment are in line to come back to the squad for Wednesday's game. 

Olowookeere's side have eight points and are third on the log of Group A, while their closest rival on the table is Confluence Queens, who would be facing table toppers Nasarawa Amazons in Lokoja at the same time.

Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, Nigeria National U-20 Women Defender and Captain of the side Paulina Ali feels her team will triumph if they play their own game. 

"If we stay focused, confident and play our own game, then we can get the result we want." Ali told www.naijaratels.com

"This is our first season in the Premiership and usually there is this kind of pressure on us, but we have gone past that. We want to keep winning games and playing like an unbreakable team. We have to keep pulling out good performances week in week out as we have gotten to the final stage of season. 

"We are focused and more determined now. Its just what we have been working hard for." She Concluded.

Olamide Adugbe: A teenager at the forefront of Nigeria women football

Olamide Adugbe has proven to be one of the best players of her age, and is already compared with some of the best Nigerian women footballers. 

The young forward broke into the scene earlier this season, scoring important goals for NWFL Premiership side, Naija Ratels. The Edo-born striker scored one of the best goal in the league on Matchday two against Edo Queens at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. A special goal that earned her side a precious point in Benin, wowing everyone at the Stadium. 

The former Nigeria Women National U-17, Flamingos Star, has scored four goals in just five matches in the top Women Football League in Nigeria (NWFL Premiership). She primarily plays as a striker and sometimes plays from the wing and has proven to be highly effective from both wings. 

She likes to dribble past defenders, has got a tremendous pace and takes great long shot. She gets involved in link-up play as well with fellow teammates Aminat Bello, Blessing Sunday and Motunrayo Ezekiel. 

The 18 year Old special talent also gets into good positions in attack, in order to receive threatening passes from her teammates, lays off defenders and cuts inside with short passes linking up with other attacking players.

Meanwhile, Adugbe has attributed her phenomena skill to Bayern Munich and Polish striker, Robert Lewandowski, who she described as her role model in the world of football. 

Lewandowski is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, and is even considered by many to be one of the greatest centre-forwards of all time. An accurate and efficient finisher with his head and both feet, Lewandowski is a prolific goalscorer and Olamide feels she just want to be like him. 

The young forward also noted that her parents gave her the full supports, from childhood, especially her dad, who was always gifting her soccer balls to play with right inside their living room.

"I started playing football right from when I was a kid." She said.  

"My Dad played a huge role in my career, from when I started kicking the ball. He always gifts me the soccer ball and played it with me. It was kind of weird for some people, because in Africa, the girl-child isn't expected to play football. 

"Then when I started growing up, I started watching Robert Lewandowski. Learnt alot from him, his aura for goals and the way he positions himself on the pitch of play. One day I hope to be as popular as he is." 

Adugbe also hailed her present team Naija Ratels and the Club's President, Barrister Paul Edeh, who have been so supportive since she arrived at the Abuja based club. 

"He (Edeh) has been a  father figure to me and all the players in the team. He regards us as his daughters and that says alot. It is one of the reasons we always put all our efforts whenever we wear the yellow and green shirt of the Ratels."

Adugbe is no doubt, one of the most sought out players in the NWFL Premiership and surely do have a bright future ahead of her.

Omokwo, Olowookeere claim NWPL December Player, Manager of the Month Awards

 

Confluence Queens FC star Mercy Omokwo and Naija Ratels FC Manager Bankole Olowookeere have won the Naija Women Football League Awards player and Manager of the month. 

Mercy Omokwo finished ahead of Naija Ratels forward Olamide Adugbe and Nasarawa Amazons Abigail Sunday to win the coveted monthly awards.  

The Confluence Queens forward scooped the prize after some sensational performances in the matches against Pelican Stars and Osun Babes. She netted the first hat-trick of the season against Pelican Stars on Matchday one and went ahead to score the only goal as her team went past Osun Babes in Ile-Ogbo. 

In all, Mercy Omokwo scored four goals in three matches, same as Olamide Adugbe, who also scored four goals in three matches, with fewer number of minutes played. 

In the Manager's category, Bankole Olowookeere edged out Liadi Bashiru of Confluence Queens and Christopher Danjuma of Nasarawa Amazons to win his first Manager of the month awards. 

Seven points out of nine possible gave the Naija Ratels Manager the prestigious awards. His team, Naija Ratels are on top of the NWFL Premiership Group A table with 2 wins and a draw in the month of December. 

The 'One day at a time' Ladies won Osun Babes 2-0 in the first game at the Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja, before deservedly getting a point in their 2-2 draw against Edo Queens at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin. 

They ended the month on a high with the 5-2 bashing of Adamawa Queens in Abuja. 

A panel of NWFL Premiership experts decided the winners of the Player/Manager of the month awards through a very fair voting process. 

The awards will be presented to the duo on Matchday five in Lokoja.

NWFL announces nominees for Premiership Player, Manager for December awards

 

Organizers of the Naija Women Football League Awards have revealed nominees for the Player and Manager for the month of December.

Three players namely Abigail Sunday of Nasarawa Amazons, Olamide Adugbe of Naija Ratels and Mercy Omokwo of Confluence Queens made the shortlist for the prestigious monthly awards.

 Mercy Omokwo played all three games for Confluence Queens in the month of December, scoring four goals, including the first hat-trick of the season against Pelican Stars on Matchday one. She also went on to score the only goal of the match against Osun Babes, to give her side successive victory in the new campaign. Her team is placed second in group A with two wins and a draw. 

Olamide Adugbe of Naija Ratels is the only player in the league to have scored in all the three games played in December. In all the games, she came in as a substitute, scoring one against Osun Babes on Matchday one, leveled up in Benin against Edo Queens in the 89th minute through a wonderful free-kick and scored two against Adamawa Queens in matchday three. Her team is placed 1st on the log in Group A, with two wins and an away draw. 

Abigail Sunday joined the 'Solid babes' from Sunshine Queens during the summer and has quickly adapted to their style of play. She scored a brace in the game against Osun Babes to earn her side a 4-0 victory over the Omoluabi Queens. Nasarawa Amazons are third in group A, her team recorded two victories in two games.

In the Managers Category, Naija Ratels Bankole Olowookeere, Nasarawa Amazons Christopher Danjuma and Confluence Queens Liadi Bashiru all made the final shortlist for December Manager Of the month. 

Bankole Olowookeere, whose side is new in the league won two of their home games and drew away to Edo Queens in Benin.

The 'One day At A Time' Ladies recorded a remarkable 2-0 and 5-2 wins against more experienced sides Osun Babes and Adamawa Queens at the Area 10 Sports Complex, while on Matchday 2, they succeeded in picking a precious draw at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin.  

Christopher Danjuma's side won big in the two  games played in the month of December. The 'Solid Babes' started with a comprehensive 3-0 away victory in Calabar against Pelican Stars and recorded a 4-0 victory in Lafia against Osun Babes. 

Liadi Bashiru of Confluence Queens got off to a 4-0 victory at home to Pelican Stars, won Osun Babes 1-0 at the home ground in his second game, but was held by Edo Queens in his third game at the Confluence Stadium, Lokoja. 

The names of nominees was shortlisted by a panel of NWFL Premiership experts, who will also decide the winners on Thursday, 6th of January 2022.

NWPL: Barrister Edeh hails Naija Ratels' determined performance

 

Naija Ratels President Barrister Paul Edeh has hailed his side's dogged spirit after playing out a 2-2 draw against Premiership giant Edo Queens at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin on Wednesday evening. 

The 'One Day At A Time' Ladies boss expressed his delight following his side's impressive performance and tasked them to keep improving game by game. 

The Abuja based team fought back from 2-0 down to secure a crucial draw against the Wemimo Mathew tutored side Edo Queens in Benin. 

Bankole Sofiat and Olamide Audugbe, who bagged a goal each in the game, were introduced into the match in the second half by Bankole Olowookeere. 

An elated Barrister Paul Edeh who was present at the Stadium admitted his side started the game on an unimpressive note, but is pleased that they improved on their performance in the second half. 

"Its a good result away from home, especially coming to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, which the Technical Crew and Players knew it was going to be very difficult, but we were so determined from the onset. ,"

"We had alot of respect for them in the first half. We showed them a lot of respect and that was why we had to come out stronger later in the second half.

"I don't think Edo Queens underrated us, but we upped our game later on, created alot of chances, and deservedly earned a rare draw in Benin.

"We also understand that the league is a journey and hopefully, we learn from every game and improve on our weaknesses. 

Naija Ratels are third on the log of Group A and  will face Adamawa Queens on Matchday three of the NWFL Premiership at the Area 10 Sports Complex.

Ex Rivers Angels striker, Georgewill Ibinabo announces arrival to Confluence Queens with Top Scorer Award

 

There couldn't have been a better for a player to join a new side than how one of the hottest strikers in Nigerian women's football, Georgewill Ibinabo when as she teamed up with Confluence Queens from league champions, Rivers Angels.

Ibinabo who joined the New Direction Queens during the just concluded Flying Officers Cup tournament in Abuja netted three goals and provided an assist to beat her teammate Mercy Omokwu and Edo Queens striker Emem Essien to the prestigious top scorer's award at the Tournament.

Chairman of Confluence Queen Hon. Abdulmalik Isah Dolly received the new signing Ibinabo with her highest goal scorer award in office on Monday, 1st November, 2021.

 

Honorable Dolly praised the former Rivers Angels striker for bringing the top scorer award to Kogi and also tasked her to keep scoring when the league resume in December to win same award in the NWPL.

"I am delighted to see my player winning individual award of this nature.  It's a sign of greater thing ahead, I want you to see this award as a motivation going into the league, I wish you best of luck and hope you finish as the league top scorer in NWPL at the end of the season". Dolly said.

Ibinabo who thanked the chairman and the management for the opportunity to join the team promised to continue doing her best to make the team proud. 

"I want to appreciate everyone at Confluence Queens for the warm reception I have received so far. I feel happy at my new home and I will do my best not to disappoint everyone."

Confluence Queens will battle in the Group A of the NWPL which kicks off December 8 with home game against Pelican Stars of Calabar at the Confluence Stadium in Lokoja.

Flying Officers Cup 2021: Lawal, Georgewill, Okah swoop individual awards

 

Flying Officers Cup 2021 is finally in the books after FC Robo Queens were crowned Champions for the first time, defeating 2019 winners Edo Queens by a lone goal. Some individual footballers did fantastically well and were celebrated at the end of the tournament. 

Player Of the Tournament (Taiwo Lawal, FC Robo Queens)

The FC Robo Queens forward was superb all through the tournament and was one of the reasons her team became eventual winners of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup. She was always pushing forward and was a nightmare for every defenders she faced. 

The Bar. Seyi Akinwunmi' Award For Highest Goalscorer - Ibinabo Georgewill, Confluence Queens -3 Goals 1 Assist) 

Ibinabo Georgewill of Confluence Queens edged out Emem Essien to win the tournament's Golden boot award. Ibinabo scored three goals, same as Emem, but had one assist ahead. Unfortunately, Emem Essien's goal against Confluence Queens in the Semi-finals was taken off board after a video review showed that Confluence Queens defender, Micheal Joy actually headed the ball and not the Edo Queens forward. 

Young Player Of The Tournament - (Rukayat Shobowale, FC Robo Queens) - 

The young football maestro started all six games as the 'Lagos Landladies' went all the way to lift the coveted title. She was everywhere on the pitch, ensuring that her team never loses focus upfront. 

The Bar. Seyi Akinwunmi Award For Best Goalkeeper (Nkiruka Obindinma, Edo Queens)

 - The 2019 NWFL Premiership goalkeeper of the year was voted as the best safe hands at the 2021 Flying Officers Cup. The Former Osun Babes goalie, conceded only one goal in 5 games that she participated in. She made some good saves too, yo help her side get to the final of the competition for the second time. 

Fair Play Award (Naija Ratels FC) -

 Naija Ratels weren't at their best in the Competition, but the players showed class and discipline all through the competition. The 'Ratels' exhibited exemplary behavior that promoted the spirit of fairplay despite going down against Royal Queens and FC Robo Queens in the competition. 

Goal Of The Tournament (Adaobi Okah, Edo Queens Vs Sunshine Queens) - 

The best goal of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup was scored by Edo Queens Adaobi Okah of Edo Queens against her former side, Sunshine Queens in the third quarter final encounter of the competition. 

Her extraordinary, strike from a far-right acute angle against Sunshine Queens was the cream of the crop.

Most Entertaining Team- (Ghana Police Ladies FC)-

 Even though they crashed out in the first round, the Ghanaian team won the hearts of fans with their style and should be credited for producing some fine moments of football. Juanita Aguadze, Jane Ayayiem, Ivy Kolli and others were on top of their game and never let loose guards at all.

FC Robo Queens pip Edo Queens to claim Flying Officers Cup 2021 title

Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership side, FC Robo Queens have emerged as the Champions of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup, Africa's biggest Women Pre-Season Championship, after earning a 1-0 win over 2019 Champions, Edo Queens in the final game at Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja.

The club which is making its debut at the tournament won the keenly contested game deservedly. 

The solitary goal of the game came in the 26th minute through Opeyemi Ajakaiye wonderful goal from about 33 yards which was the first goal conceded by Edo Queens in the tournament.

In the second half of the game, Edo Queens searched for the equalizing goal.

FC Robo Queens on the other hand tried to double its lead in the 60th minute but her effort went wide as they hold on to clinch the title.

FC Robo Queens coach, Emmanuel Orobosa Osahon became the third manager to win the Flying Officers Cup after Gabriel Adejor (Edo Queens) and Moses Aduku (Bayelsa Queens).

Earlier on, Osun Babes FC defeated Confluence Queens 9-8 on penalties.

Abisola Abiona missed her spot kick for Osun Babes while the duo of Hauwa Abdullahi and Oliver Jenifer missed their penalties for Confluence Queens.

Osun Babes defender, Kemi Abiodun converted the final penalty kick to win the third place match for the Omoluabi Queens..

Rukayat Shobowale (FC Robo Queens) - Young Player of the Tournament

Adaobi Okah vs Sunshine Queens (Quarter final) - Goal of the Tournament

Obidinma Nkiruka (Edo Queens) - Goalkeeper of the Tournament

Ibinabo Georgewill (Confluence Queens) -

Highest Goal Scorer

Naija Ratels FC - Fair Play Award

Ghana Police FC - Most Entertaining Team

Taiwo Lawal (FC Robo Queens) - Most Valuable Player of the Tournament

AIT, Radio Nigeria to beam Flying Officers Cup 2021 final live

 

Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Radio Nigeria Network Service will beam live the final of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup, between Edo Queens and FC Robo Queens, scheduled to hold Sunday, the 24th of October at the Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja. 

This was revealed by the Ratels Sports Development Foundation President, Barrister Paul Edeh on Friday evening after the end of the two Semi-final games. 

Ratels Sports Development Foundation (RSDF), main sponsors of the pre-season championship in build up to the competition partnered with AIT as official broadcast partners for the Flying Officer’s Cup at a meeting held between the management team of the largest privately operated terrestrial television network, led by Anegbe Anthony Akiotu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Group Managing Director (GMD) and Ratels Sports Development Foundation, led by the President Barrister Paul Edeh.

Edo Queens set a record by being the first club to qualify for two finals of the Flying Officers Cup. The 'Obaseki Ladies' were champions in 2019 and will be seeking to be Champions again, when they face FC Robo Queens in the final on Sunday.

FC Robo Queens on the other hand are participating at the tournament for the first time and would want to prove a point on sunday too.

Closing ceremony of the competition will start by 1pm, while the kick off for the final match will start by 3pm. Sixteen teams started the journey on the 10th of October.

FC Robo Queens end Osun Babes Flying Officers Cup dream as Emem Essien fires Edo Queens into final

 

The stage is set for the final of the 2021 Flying Officers Cup after the conclusion of semi final games on Friday.

FC Robo Queens in the first semi final game defeated Osun Babes 2-0.

The Lagos Land-Ladies dominated the game before eventually finding the breakthrough in the 41st minute courtesy of Onyenezide Esther.

Osun Babes in the second half searched for the equaliser as Bolaji Olamide's effort in the 63rd minute hit the wood work.

The Omoluabi Queens created some chances in the second half but failed to convert while FC Robo Queens proved to be dangerous on the counter.

Osun Babes had a gilt edge chance to equalise but Alvine Dah Zossu who had only the goalkeeper to beat put her effort wide in the 79th minute.

Two minutes later, FC Robo Queens doubled its lead as Folashade Ijamilusi converted the Lagos based side's second goal to lift them into the final on Sunday.

The second semi final game was a keenly contested and physical game but Edo Queens had to rely on a late drama to be able to edge Confluence Queens 1-0.

The deciding goal of the game came in the 88th minute as Emem Essien headed in a cross for her fourth goal of the competition to take her to the top of the goal scorers chat.

Edo Queens remain the only team yet to concede a goal at the 2021 Flying Officers Cup while they are unbeaten alongside finalist, FC Robo Queens.

Osun Babes and Confluence Queens will play the third place match on Sunday, October 24 before the final game between FC Robo Queens and Edo Queens.

The kick off for the final game is 3pm, while the third place match will hold by 10 am in the morning at the Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja.

The final game will be telecast live on Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Radio Nigeria Network Service.

| Semi Final Results|

Osun Babes 0 FC Robo Queens 2

Edo Queens 1 Confluence Queens 0.

| THIRD PLACE|Sunday, 24th October 2021

Osun Babes Vs Confluence Queens (10am)

|FINAL| 

Edo Queens Vs FC Robo Queens (3pm)

Journey so far as Flying Officers Cup zoom to semi finals

 

The 2021 Flying Officers Cup has now reached the Semi-finals stage. Four teams are two matches away from winning the biggest Women Football Pre-season Championship in Africa.

Confluence Queens, Osun Babes, FC Robo Queens and Edo Queens will compete for a spot in the final, which will be shown live on TV.

Confluence Queens and FC Robo Queens have scored more goals that the other two teams in the Semi-finals. The two teams have recorded 10 goals each going into the semi's., While Edo Queens and Osun Babes have 8 and 5 goals respectively. 

The first Semi-finals fixture will be between Osun Babes and FC Robo Queens by 10am on friday morning at the Area 10 Sports Complex, Abuja., While the other Semi final will see Edo Queens and Confluence Queens battle each other. It will be interesting to see whether Edo Queens undefeated run will continue or Confluence Queens, the top scorer in the tournament will establish its superiority.

|Osun Babes|

Osun Babes 2 - Prince Kazeem Eletu Queens 1

FC Robo Queens 1 - Osun Babes 1

Bayelsa Queens 0 Osun Babes 0

Q1: Osun Babes 2 Royal Queens 0. 

|Confluence Queens|

SGH Sports Academy Amazons 0 Confluence Queens 4

Confluence Queens 1 Sunshine Queens 0

WACO Ladies 0 Confluence Queens 4

Q2: Confluence Queens 1 Nasarawa Amazons 0

|FC Robo Queens| 

FC Robo Queens 1 Bayelsa Queens 0

FC Robo Queens 1 Osun Babes 1 

Prince Kazeem Eletu Queens 1 FC Robo Queens 6. 

Q3: FC Robo Queens 2 Naija Ratels 0. 

|Edo Queens FC| 

Nasarawa Amazons 0 Edo Queens 1

Lakeside Queens 0 Edo Queens 3

Edo Queens 3 Dannaz Ladies 0

Q4: Edo Queens 1 Sunshine Queens 0.

Bolaji Olamide targets Flying Officers Cup glory with Osun Babes

 

Osun Babes midfielder Bolaji Olamide has told the Flying Officers Cup Media that she only has her sight on winning the Pre-season Championship after her team progressed to the Semi-finals on Monday afternoon..

Bolaji, who was voted 'Player of the match' after a superlative performance in their 2-0 win over young and determined side Royal Queens, said she looks forward to her team getting to the finals and winning the competition.

"Our game against Royal Queens was a very difficult one, we had alot of opportunities, but failed to take them. They were all over us at a time, putting pressure and aiming to score. Am happy I could help my team' get to the Semi-finals and hopefully we would be in the finals.

"I am hopeful and with the squad we have, we can go all the way to do something special. I am optimistic, so is my teammates and everyone in the team.

Osun Babes are participating at their first Flying Officers Cup Pre-season Championship and would be playing their Semi-final game on Friday.

The team won their first game against Prince Kazeem Eletu Queens by 2-1, played a 1-1 draw against FC Robo Queens and their last group game against Bayelsa Queens ended goalless.

Olowookeere picks positive from Robo Queens loss at Flying Officers Cup

After a 2-0 defeat to FC Robo Queens which effectively ended Naija Ratels FC participation at the 2021 Flying Officers Cup, coach of the Naija Ratels, Bankole Olowookeere is looking ahead of the tournament with the aim of improving his team ahead of the 2021/2022 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season.

The experienced Manager believes he is heading towards the right direction with his squad and promise to continue assessing the squad and making them stronger.

"It wasn't a bad game for the team. We tried our best to get the desired result but the best side won the game. FC Robo Queens deserve the victory. We just have to work more because that is the major reason for pre season tournaments.

"It's so clear and glaring that our attack have not been converting their chances that we have to work on."

Naija Ratels FC finished fourth in the last edition of the Flying Officers Cup with eight teams and have now bowed out of the 2021 edition with 16 teams at the quarter final stage.

Coach Olowookeere is of the view that the most important thing was the fact that his team maintained its status quo without dropping while also highlighting what he needs to work on ahead of 2021/2022 NWFL Premiership season.

He said: "If we do the Mathematics which is not common in football but part of it, it's still the same position for us because if we had played this tournament with eight teams we would have qualified for the semi final. We now have 16 teams. It's important for us that we didn't drop but maintain our status quo. If the team had converted their chances, we would have been contesting for the final but it is an issue in which we have to take a wholistic look at ahead of next season in the NWFL Premiership."

Naija Ratels FC will play in Group A when the 2021/2022 NWFL Premiership season kicks off alongside Nasarawa Amazons, Confluence Queens, Pelican Stars, Osun Babes, Adamawa Queens, and Edo Queens.

Next season will be Naija Ratels FC's maiden season in the top flight NWFL Premiership after gaining promotion from second tier NWFL Championship this year alongside Adamawa Queens.