Delta Queens reclaimed the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership title after a 2-1 win over title holders, Bayelsa Queens on Sunday.
The wife of the Delta state governor, Tobore Oborevwori observed the ceremonial pre-match kick-off at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.
The epic triumph did not come easy for the hosts of 2022/2023 NWFL Premiership Super Six as they had to come from behind with two goals from super substitute, Chinaza Agoh in the second half.
The Cup holders, 2022 WAFU-B and CAF Women’s Champions League bronze winner started the cagey game on a bright note and had a free kick in the 13th minute at the edge of the box.
Zainab Olapade’s free kick in the 14th minute hit the woodwork before Chisom Henry, unfortunately, put the ball into her net.
With its 15-match unbeaten run on the line, Tosan Blankson’s side surged forward for the equaliser and had a chance in the 45th minute to even the scores after Bayelsa Queens’ captain, Uzoamaka Igwe brought down Mercy Omokwo inside the box.
Fehintola Mabokanje missed the resulting spot kick and the Prosperity Girls went into the dugout with a 1-0 lead.
Determined to avoid its first loss of the campaign, coach Blankson introduced Chinaza Agoh and Inyang Esther in place of Olabiyi Folajomi Alaba and Sandra Johnosi in the 65th minute.
The changes paid off as Agoh notched the equaliser for Delta two minutes after her introduction with a brilliant acrobatic style goal.
The goal conceded was the first by Bayelsa in this year’s Super Six after a 1-0 win over Robo Queens and Rivers Angels respectively.
Four minutes from regulation time, Agoh scored the stunning winner for the Asaba-based side as Delta held on to claim its sixth league title and its first since 2012.
With the title success, Delta Queens will represent Nigeria at the 2023 WAFU-B Zonal qualifiers, where they will bid to qualify for the Ivory Coast 2023 CAF Women’s Champions League later this year.
On the other hand, Bayelsa will now shift focus on the 2023 Federation Cup final as they hope to defend their crown after failing to retain the league diadem against neighbours, Rivers Angels on June 21.
