Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
Delta Queens of Asaba, Nigeria’s representative at the ongoing CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers for WAFU B zone, have qualified for the final after beating Athletico Football Club of Côte d’Ivoire 3–2 in the first semi finals at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Monday, 28 August.
Delta Queens survived a late scare by Athletico FC from Côte d’Ivoire to claim a 3-2 win in extra time after a shaky start.
Athletico got off to a bright start after taking an early lead in five minutes when Melissa Behnian broke through on the run of play to slot home the opener.
The opening goal gave the Ivorian representatives some sort of confidence against Delta Queens as they were undeterred and resolute in the first half, without conceding.
Delta Queens came searching for an equalizer after the restart of the match following the introduction of Mercy Omokwo and Nmesoma Ibeh.
The duo had instant, positive effect upfront for Delta Queens who found their way back into the contest when Omokwo scored a wonder goal to the delight of the crowd on 62nd minutes.
The equalizer brought Delta Queens back to life as they began to push for further goals, though, Athletico tied up their defense neatly.
With no further goals from both sides after the regular time, extra time was needed to settle score for a winner to emerge after an intense encounter.
Omokwo again found space from a tight corner to score her brace and gave Delta the lead, 2-1 for the first time after eight minutes into the first-half of the extra time.
Seven minutes later, captain Taiwo Afolabi grabbed a third for Delta Queens which in turn proved to be the match winner when she lopped the ball past goalie Cynthia Djohore into the net.
However, captain Joy Sunday pulled one back for Athletico in the closing stage of the extra time, Delta remained in control of march to the blast of the final whistle.
Delta Queens showcased their credentials and remained on course for the top prize, the ticket to represent the region at the continental event later in the year.