The Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament Games 2022 officially got underway with a snazzy opening ceremony – replete with a high-class Edo cultural performance, and an inspirational speech by the first lady of Edo state, Mrs Betsy Obaseki at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin city, Edo state on Thursday.
A carnival-like atmosphere kicked off the opening ceremony with colourful dance displays by the Edo cultural troupe which showcased the rich culture of the people.
A choreography demonstration was shortly used to pass across the theme of the tournament “Say No To Drugs”.
To officially kick off the tournament, Mrs Betsy performed the ceremonial kick-off and was greeted by cheers from the crowd at the stadium.
Edo Queens however sauced the night with a beautiful display of football artistry as they took their opponents to the cleaner.
Known for their resilience, Edo Queens showed their improved display as the first half went underway though, missed a couple of chances in the early minutes of the game but Eunice Godwin’s strike in the 13th Minute put Edo Queens 1-0 ahead of their counterpart.
The Royaltoms ladies at a point gained some confidence as they grew into the game and raised their game against Edo Queens, but the Lagos-based side was easy to break through as Joy Jerry turned in a rebound to make it 2-0 against their opponents.
Emem Essien made use of the weak defensive wall of the Royaltoms ladies as she shot in the third goal for her side to end the first half on a comfortable 3-0 lead.
Resuming the second half, Moses made two changes to breathe into his team some fresh strength.
They had a smooth interchange of passes as goal number four came from a volley off substitute, Glory Osagahe’s left foot.
Another substitute, Yetunde Fajobi added the 5th goal as Eunice Godwin added another goal to make it six with four minutes before the hour mark.
With the good distribution of passes, Joy Jerry got her brace to make it seven for her side. Sleeky forward, Yetunde Fajobi got her brace with 20 minutes left to play and would after so much ball passing and practised movement by the team get her hat trick from the spot to make it 9.
Earlier in the day, Confluence Queens edged Naija Ratels by a lone goal while FC Robo Queens trounced Benin-based side, Braveheart Ladies 9-0.
Hostilities continue on Friday where Nassarawa Amazons will take on FC Robo at the Uniben Sports Complex in what’s the match of the group stage.
Edo Queens will take on Royal Queens at the Western Boys High School pitch while Naija Ratels will look to revive their hope of advancing to the quarter-finals against Fortress Ladies at the Uniben Sports Complex.
Delta Queens FC in the last match of the day will take on Heartland Queens at the Western boys High School Stadium, Ikpoba-Okah.