With the 3rd Edition of the Betsy Obaseki Women’s football tournament, BOWFT23 coming to a close, Edo Queens emerged Champions after defeating Bayelsa on penalties in a well-contested match under the floodlights of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

The tournament saw 13 teams contest for glory- Edo Queens, Fortress Ladies, Robo Queens, Delta Queens, Naija Ratels, Osun Babes, Ekiti Queens, Confluence Queens, Heartland FC, Rivers Angels, Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens and Remo Stars Ladies.

Edo Queens started the game well but saw their morale drop as they conceded from a shot outside the 18-yard box from Abiola of the Prosperity Ladies. With time running out in the first 45, a well-placed strike by Eunice Godwin from the side of the box saw the Aduku-led team draw level before the halftime mark. Goalkeeper of Bayelsa Queens, Okeke who had been saving all balls, could not help as the ball dunked into her net.

With many chances created by Edo Queens in the second half, Bayelsa Queens mounted their guard defensively and were able to see the game to a 1-1 draw at the end of 90 minutes. A handball offence spotted by the center referee saw Edo Queens get a penalty at the death of the game. With few seconds left, Suliat Abideen stepped up to take the shot but her spot kick hit the cross bar.

The game was all tensed and moved straight to penalties. Joy Jerry of Edo Queens stepped up to play but she saw her penalty kick hit the crossbar. Edo Queens however, recovered and went on to claim the day as their opponents missed two of their chances to end the game 4-3 on penalties.

Earlier in the day, Delta Queens trashed Remo Stars 3 goals to 1 to claim the third spot behind Bayelsa Queens who finished in second place.

This annual tournament which is aimed at tackling vices experienced in society had the theme for this year’s edition tagged STOP GENDER BASED VIOLENCE.