$350,000 up for grabs as Edo Queens prepare for semifinal showdown with TP Mazembe

• Edo Queens face TP Mazembe in the CAF Women’s Champions League semifinal, aiming for a $350,000 prize and a shot at the $600,000 ultimate reward
• The Queens topped Group B after a stunning 2-1 comeback win over defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns
• A victory will secure a spot in the final, capping off an incredible journey after winning the WAFU B Women’s Championship

Edo Queens, Nigeria’s trailblazing Nigerian Women Football League (NWFL) champions, are on the verge of making history in the CAF Women’s Champions League. 

After a remarkable group-stage campaign, they now stand just one game away from a chance at the ultimate prize of $600,000. 

The Queens, who have shown incredible determination throughout the tournament, will face DR Congo’s TP Mazembe in a high-stakes semifinal clash on Tuesday, November 19, at 4:00 p.m. Nigerian time.

Having already secured at least $300,000 by progressing to the semifinals, Edo Queens could see their earnings rise to $350,000 with a victory over DR Congo’s TP Mazembe. 

Should they go further and secure a spot in the final, their prize will increase to $400,000, while lifting the coveted trophy would bring in a staggering $600,000.

The team’s journey to the semifinals has been nothing short of extraordinary. In their last group game, Edo Queens defeated defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa 2-1 in a dramatic comeback. Sundowns, who had reached the final in every edition of the tournament since its inception in 2021, opened the scoring in the 24th minute through Melinda Kgadiete. However, the Nigerian champions refused to back down.

With five minutes of added time, Emem Essien equalised after capitalising on a goalkeeper’s error. Just moments later, Mary Mamudu sealed the victory, smashing the ball into the roof of the net following a brilliant assist from Super Falcons forward Goodness Osigwe. 

The win not only eliminated Sundowns from the competition but also secured Edo Queens’ top spot as Group B leaders.

This success adds to Edo Queens’ impressive achievements this year. After clinching their maiden Nigerian league title, they triumphed in the WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire. 

The comeback in their last game has drawn praise from Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, who commended their ambition,

“The NFF and the entire Nigerian football family are thrilled by the accomplishments of Edo Queens, from winning the WAFU B title to their extraordinary comeback against Sundowns, the team has displayed unmatched determination and ambition. They have the qualities to become African champions.”

Edo Queens’ focus now shifts to the clash against TP Mazembe. With $350,000 and a place in the final on the line, Edo Queens will aim to continue their dream run and etch their name in African football women's history.

Waldrum resigns after 4-year stint with Super Falcons, cites important reasons

Previously, TheRadar reported that Randy Waldrum, head coach of the Super Falcons, had reportedly tendered his resignation to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). 

Having guided the Nigerian women’s national football team since 2020, Waldrum’s exit came just after leading the team to a round of 16 finish at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and a recent appearance at the 2024 Olympic Games.