As the excitement builds for the CAF Women’s Champions League, CAFOnline.com sits down for an exclusive interview with coach of Nigerian side Edo Queens as they prepare to play in the competition.

After their impressive victory in the WAFU B competition, which secured their qualification for the prestigious tournament, the coach Moses Aduku shares his thoughts on the team’s journey, aspirations, and the growing standard of women’s football in Africa. 

This interview with coach Aduku also highlights the team’s commitment as they prepare to represent Nigeria in the CAF Women’s Champions League. 

Edo Queens aim not only to compete but to make their mark in this prestigious tournament with a fierce determination to lift the trophy.

How difficult was it in winning the WAFU B women’s competition in Cote d’Ivoire that secured your qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League?

Moses Aduku: It was a wonderful competition. It was our first time participating, and we approached it believing that we were not just there to compete but also to see if we could win the competition. Every game felt like a cup final.

My players were on top of their game. We treated every match as crucial. We started with a victory against the Niger team, winning 1-0, followed by a 3-0 win against the team from Ghana. Then we faced Burkina Faso’s team, which ended in a 1-0 victory for us. This success came not just from winning, but from understanding the importance of why we were in Côte d’Ivoire. We seized our opportunities and managed to defeat the host team in the semi-finals, winning 2-1, and then secured a 3-0 victory in the final against the team from the Republic of Benin.

The road was not easy, but hard work pays off. My players were ready to put in the effort. We had intensive training sessions and played friendly matches to shape the team. So it was challenging, but we are grateful to be representing West Africa.

Now that you’ve qualified, what do you hope to achieve in the Women’s Champions League?

Moses Aduku: Having reached this stage, we certainly don’t want to come back empty-handed. Our preparations have already started since the day we qualified. We are thankful to the Edo State government for providing us with the resources to move from our regular camp into a more focused training environment for the Champions League. It’s going to be tough, but just as we succeeded in WAFU B, we plan to take it one game at a time and push hard to bring home the trophy.

Which Edo Queens player should the whole of Africa look out for during the Champions League?

Moses Aduku: For me, I believe our strength lies in the team as a whole rather than focusing on individual players. Fans should watch out for our entire squad.

What do you think Africa must continue to do to further cement the upward trajectory of women’s football on the continent?

Moses Aduku: I think the CAF Women’s Champions League should continue to be a priority. Initially, before its inception, players were competing without any real stakes after their national leagues concluded. Now, with the Champions League, there’s a significant incentive to win, as everyone aims to compete on the continental stage.

It would be beneficial to expand the number of participating teams. Currently, we have eight teams; increasing that to twelve would be a great improvement. Moreover, we must ensure that our teams remain disciplined on the field, keeping our shape when we have and lose the ball while minimizing unnecessary fouls. Maintaining this discipline, along with our scoring mentality, is crucial as we move forward.

Nigeria has a strong legacy in African women’s football, which brings high expectations. Does this put pressure on you and your team?

Moses Aduku: Definitely, everyone competing in the Champions League will feel the pressure, not just our team. Yes, we are giants of African football, but the reality is that matches are played over 90 minutes, and preparation is key. I am grateful to the Edo State government for facilitating our thorough preparation. The expectation is high since we have never won this title before, but we are committed to overcoming any pressure by focusing on our game plan and executing it well.

Can Edo Queens perform better than previous Nigerian teams in the CAF Women’s Champions League?

Moses Aduku: Lessons can be learned from those who have represented us in the past. For instance, Bayelsa Queens, who reached the semifinals, played well but missed key opportunities. We aim to capitalize on those lessons and take our chances.

What personal achievements do you hope to accomplish at the tournament?

Moses Aduku: We aim for nothing less than lifting the trophy. That is our desire. We know it won’t be easy, but we are focused on taking it one game at a time.

How will participating in the Champions League impact your career?

Moses Aduku: This is a significant platform. It is the highest level of club competition in Africa, which will undoubtedly enhance my CV. Therefore, it is essential that each of us, including the players, performs at our best.

What is your perspective on the standard of women’s football in Africa?

Moses Aduku: Women’s football in Africa is growing tremendously. No team is a pushover anymore.

Lastly, what message do you have for Edo Queens fans and Nigerian supporters?

Moses Aduku: I urge our fans to pray for us and expect great performances from the team.

-CAF