Edo Queens have accepted the decision of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following the ruling on their disputed WAFU-B final against Ghanaian side Ampem FC, with the Nigerian champions set to return to action in Cairo, Egypt, to determine the regional title.
The Benin City-based club confirmed its decision to comply with CAF’s ruling after consultations with its board, the Edo State Government and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Although the outcome of the appeal was not what the club had hoped for, Edo Queens said they had chosen to complete the contest in the interest of sporting fairness, insisting that the winner should ultimately be determined on the pitch.
The team is scheduled to depart for Cairo on Monday, October 26, ahead of the decisive encounter, as they seek to secure their place in the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League, which is scheduled to begin on November 1.
In a statement, the club reaffirmed its determination to overcome the setback and achieve its continental ambition.
“Our mission remains unchanged: to fight, to win and to secure our place in the CAF Women’s Champions League,” the club said.
Edo Queens acknowledged the disappointment among their supporters following CAF’s decision but stressed that the team remained committed to moving forward with courage, discipline and resilience.
The club also expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government and the NFF for their support, guidance and representation throughout the appeal process.
It further thanked its supporters and members of the media for standing by the team during the period of uncertainty, urging fans to maintain their backing ahead of the crucial match.
According to the club, the players and technical crew are focused on the task ahead and determined to represent Edo State and Nigeria with pride.
How the WAFU-B Final Dispute Started
The controversy dates back to September 5, 2026, when Edo Queens were declared winners of the WAFU-B final after defeating Ampem FC of Ghana 4-1 in a penalty shootout.
The final had ended 2-2 after 90 minutes of regulation time, with Edo Queens subsequently prevailing in the shootout to claim the regional title.
However, Ampem FC challenged the outcome, arguing that the match should have proceeded to an additional 30 minutes of extra time before penalties, in line with the applicable competition regulations.
The Ghanaian club’s protest questioned the decision to proceed directly to a penalty shootout without playing extra time.
The matter was subsequently considered by CAF’s disciplinary and appeal bodies, which ruled in favour of Ampem FC, overturning the outcome that had initially seen Edo Queens emerge as champions.
The decision has forced Edo Queens to return to the field to settle the contest, turning the upcoming encounter in Cairo into a decisive battle for the regional qualification spot.
Edo Queens Face a Crucial Test
For Edo Queens, the return to action presents an opportunity to put the controversy behind them and prove their strength on the pitch.
The Nigerian side must now concentrate on the sporting challenge ahead, knowing that their hopes of competing in the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League depend on the outcome of the encounter.
Their preparations will be closely watched by supporters in Edo State and across Nigeria, particularly after the uncertainty surrounding the final and the subsequent appeal process.
With the team expected to travel to Egypt on October 26, attention will now shift to their readiness, tactical preparations and ability to deliver under pressure.
Edo Queens have made it clear that they intend to approach the contest with determination, while calling on their supporters to remain united behind the team.
The decisive match in Cairo will therefore represent more than a contest for the WAFU-B title.
It will also provide Edo Queens with an opportunity to settle the dispute on the pitch and pursue their ambition of representing Nigeria at Africa’s premier women’s club football competition.
