Key Takeaways

• Edo Queens won the 2023 Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament.
• The final ended 1-1 before Edo Queens triumphed 4-3 on penalties.
• Bayelsa Queens finished second after a disciplined performance.
• Delta Queens secured third place with victory over Remo Stars Ladies.
• The tournament promoted awareness against gender-based violence.

Edo Queens BOWFT23 Champions

Under the floodlights of the iconic Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Edo Queens sealed a dramatic victory to lift the third edition of the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament, widely known as BOWFT23.

The Edo-based side defeated Bayelsa Queens 4-3 on penalties after a fiercely contested final ended 1-1 in regulation time.

The tournament, which has become one of Nigeria’s most visible women’s football events, featured 13 clubs from across the country. Organisers said this year’s edition focused on raising awareness against gender-based violence under the theme: “Stop Gender-Based Violence.”

Edo Queens Fight Back to Claim BOWFT23 Crown

Bayelsa Queens struck first in the opening half after Abiola fired a long-range effort beyond the reach of the Edo defence.

The early goal briefly unsettled the home side. Yet Edo Queens responded before the break through Eunice Godwin, whose composed finish from a tight angle restored parity moments before halftime.

Bayelsa goalkeeper Okeke produced several saves throughout the match. However, she was unable to prevent Godwin’s equaliser from finding the net.

The second half produced several attacking moments from Edo Queens, who pressed aggressively in search of a winner. Bayelsa Queens, however, remained compact defensively and forced the game into added time.

Late drama followed when the referee awarded Edo Queens a penalty after spotting a handball offence inside the area. With seconds left, Suliat Abideen stepped forward, but her effort crashed against the crossbar.

The miss pushed the final into a tense penalty shootout.

Penalty Shootout Decides BOWFT23 Final

The shootout began nervously for the hosts as Joy Jerry missed Edo Queens’ opening attempt.

Despite the setback, the Benin-based side recovered strongly. Bayelsa Queens failed to convert two crucial penalties, allowing Edo Queens to complete a 4-3 victory and spark celebrations inside the stadium.

The triumph adds another significant achievement to the growing profile of women’s football in Edo State.

Delta Queens Finish Third

Earlier on the final day, Delta Queens defeated Remo Stars Ladies 3-1 to secure third place in the competition.

The tournament also featured clubs including Robo Queens, Rivers Angels, Nasarawa Amazons, Heartland FC, Naija Ratels and Osun Babes.

Why the Betsy Obaseki Tournament Matters

The Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament has increasingly become a platform for promoting women’s football in Nigeria while addressing wider social issues.

Beyond the competition itself, organisers have used the event to campaign against violence affecting women and girls. Sports analysts say initiatives like BOWFT23 continue to provide exposure for female athletes and strengthen the domestic women’s league structure.

Women’s football in Nigeria has grown steadily over the past decade, with local tournaments helping clubs develop players for national and continental competitions.