Edo Queens Make History As Adegbuyi Wins WAFU-B Player Of The Tournament

Sixteen-year-old Nigerian footballer Oluwakemi Adegbuyi has been named Player of the Tournament after playing a key role in Edo Queens’ triumph at the 2026 WAFU-B Women’s Championship.

The teenager’s impressive performances helped Edo Queens secure the regional title and qualify for the 2026/27 CAF Women’s Champions League.

Edo Queens defeated Ghanaian side Ampem Darkoa 4-1 on penalties after the final ended 2-2 during regulation time in Burkina Faso on Sunday.

The Nigerian champions fell behind after conceding an early penalty but showed resilience to fight their way back into the contest. They eventually secured a late equaliser in the 90+3rd minute, forcing the decisive encounter into a penalty shootout.

Edo Queens converted four of their spot-kicks, while Ampem Darkoa scored only one, allowing the Nigerian side to claim the WAFU-B title and book their place in the continental competition.

Adegbuyi emerged as one of the tournament’s standout players, making a significant impact throughout the competition.

The Nigeria U-17 international scored twice in Edo Queens’ 3-1 victory over ASEC Mimosas, finding the net on her debut before scoring again in her second appearance.

Her performances earned her the Golden Ball award as the best player of the tournament.

The youngster also enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 campaign with FC Robo Queens, scoring 11 goals during the NWFL Premiership regular season and Super Six playoffs. Her form saw her named the league’s Player of the Season.

Adegbuyi has now added the WAFU-B Player of the Tournament award to her growing list of individual honours and is expected to be one of the players to watch when the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup takes place in Morocco from October 17 to November 7.

Reacting to Edo Queens’ qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League, Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa described the achievement as a major milestone for the state and Nigerian women’s football.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, in Benin, Idahosa praised the players and technical crew for their resilience, discipline and determination throughout the tournament.

The deputy governor said the achievement had further strengthened Edo State’s position as a major force in women’s football in Nigeria and West Africa.

Idahosa congratulated the players, coaches, technical crew, officials and the entire Edo Queens family, describing their success as evidence of what can be achieved when talent is supported by discipline, commitment and adequate investment.

He also commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his administration’s investment in sports development and praised the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Enabulele, for his leadership and support.

Idahosa expressed confidence that Edo Queens would continue to make a strong impression when they represent Nigeria on the continental stage.