BY KUNLE SOLAJA.

Nigeria’s flagbearers, the Edo Queen will make their final appearance at the 2024 CAF Women’s League this Friday when they take on FC Masar of Egypt in the third-place match.

A win will not only fetch them the bronze medal, but an increased financial gain from $300,000 to $350,000. By the current exchange rate, this is N589,284,600.

A chunk of this will undoubtedly improve their living standards and also fetch some of the players better offers from foreign clubs.

Already, their good run has led to some of the players emerging as nominees at next month’s CAF Awards in Morocco. Monle Oyono is nominated along with Super Falcon’s goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie as contender for the African Woman’s Goalkeeper of the Year.

So also is  Emem Essien seeking to win the Women’s version of the Interclub Player of the Year Award. Their coach, Moses Adukwu is not also left out as he is nominated for the Women’s Coach of the Year category.

Edo Queens is among the eight shortlisted for the Club of the Year. A defeat of FC Masar of Egypt in the third-place match will improve their honours chase.

Both teams met at the group stage and played a barren draw. A winner must emerge this Friday as both teams aim for a pdium finish.

In an exclusive interview, CAFOnline presents Emem Peace Essien, a star player from the Nigerian side, Edo Queens.     Emem’s journey from playing street football to becoming a formidable Nigerian women’s football force is inspiring.

 Named Woman of the Match twice in the tournament, Emem’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and remarkable talent.    

From her early days inspired by her father’s encouragement to her current role as a key player in Edo Queens, Emem’s insights offer a glimpse into the dedication and hard work required to excel in the sport.

 Currently participating in the CAF Women’s Champions League Morocco 2024, Essien and her team are striving for excellence on an international stage. 

CAFOnline.com: Can you tell us how you first fell in love with football in Nigeria and who has been your biggest influence so far?

E.E: First of all, I want to thank God. My biggest influence in football has been my dad. Even though I already loved the sport, it was his encouragement that pushed me to start playing. It all began with street football.

How did you start playing street football?

It started during my school days—primary and secondary school—where I played with family and friends. Although I had an interest in football, it was my dad who really encouraged me to continue playing. He has been my biggest influence growing up.

What valuable lessons about teamwork and leadership have you learned so far at Edo Queens?

I’ve learned the importance of putting others first and encouraging my teammates. Leadership involves bringing everyone along and ensuring collective success. It makes me happy to see everyone working together.

Who has been your greatest supporter or mentor throughout your football journey, and how has it impacted you?

Like I said earlier, my dad has always been my mentor. He has inspired me in many ways and has always encouraged me, even when I felt like giving up. His support has pushed me to reach higher goals.

What are your personal goals for Edo Queens as a player and your broader perspectives on Nigerian football?

I want to contribute in every way possible to help Edo Queens succeed, especially by scoring goals. I aim for us to be the first Nigerian team to win the CAF Champions League. On a national level, I aspire to help Nigeria win the World Cup.

Looking ahead, what do you see for Nigerian women’s football in the future and what role do you want to play in that future?

I see Nigerian football becoming one of the best in Africa and the world. I hope to play a role in achieving this by winning the Champions League and the World Cup.

How has competing in the Champions League impacted you as a player?

I am very happy to be part of one of the best teams in Africa and to compete against other top teams. This experience has greatly improved my skills and confidence.

What has been the most unforgettable moment for you so far in this women’s Champions League?

My most unforgettable moment was scoring the equalising goal against the South African team, Mamelodi Sundowns. It was an incredible experience.

What emotions and pride do you feel representing Edo Queens and Nigeria at this stage?

I feel very proud and happy to represent both Edo Queens and Nigeria on this stage.

How do you manage the challenges of balancing your career as a football player with the responsibilities and expectations of being a woman?

It hasn’t been easy, but I try to make time for the important people in my life. I balance my career and personal life by creating time for those who matter to me.

What support system do you rely on to manage the dual demands of your personal life and career as a football player?

In my personal life, I engage in activities that I enjoy and that make me happy. When it comes to football, I focus on the sport and keep my personal enjoyment separate.

Do you have people who support you whenever you feel down, either in your career or personal life?

Yes, my friends, parents, and other team members are very important to me. They support me when I’m feeling down in both my career and personal life.

Can you share an experience where you had to overcome an obstacle as a player and in your individual life?

I experienced a major setback when I got injured last year. With the help of my family and friends, I managed to come back successfully. I was injured for six months, starting in November last year, and I made a full recovery six months later.

Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions, and good luck for the rest of the tournament.

BY KUNLE SOLAJA.

When the two teams in the final match of the CAF Women’s League line up on Saturday, two Moroccan coaches will be at different ends.

The Congolese team of TP Mazembe is led by Moroccan coach Lamia Boumehdi. She will be up against her male compatriot, Mohamed Amine Alioua who will be leading the Moroccan side, AS FAR.

Boumedhi is a former captain of the Atlas Lionesses. Her coaching journey has been a groundbreaking one.

After serving as head coach of Morocco’s U17 Women’s Team, she took on the unique challenge of leading the DR Congo’s TP Mazembe Ladies.

Her journey is marked by both her success as a player and her commitment to pushing boundaries as a coach.

‘’I’ve always loved football. In our day, football wasn’t as professional.

“We played for fun. But at 26, after a serious cruciate ligament injury, the doctor told me I couldn’t play any more.

“I couldn’t accept that because I love football so much. So I decided to stay on the pitch, but as a coach. Coaching for me is about guiding young talent and giving back to the sport that gave me so much,” says Lamia. 

“Now, with TP Mazembe, I’m focused on building a competitive team that reflects the heart of Congolese football.

“We have done a great deal of work on the ground by creating a sports-study school. The centre is the only one in DR Congo to have a training programme for young players, including different age categories.

“I’m honoured to be contributing to this project, and I’m looking forward to many more editions to come.” Her players often describe her as a meticulous strategist with an innate ability to empower those around her.

Lamia sees her role as a bridge between nations, cultures, and footballing philosophies.

“Coaching in a different country has been a gift,” she says. “It’s shown me the incredible diversity of African football. No matter where we come from, we share a love for the game and a drive to elevate it.”