Bayelsa Queens sealed their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 WAFU B Women’s Champions League after a convincing 3-0 victory over Togo’s ASKO on Wednesday at the Stade du Lycée Scientifique in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast.

The six-time Nigeria Women’s Football League champions, who began their campaign with a 2-1 win against Ghana’s Police Ladies, made it back-to-back victories to qualify for the last four with a game to spare.

The opening half was tense and scrappy, with both sides struggling to find rhythm. Bayelsa’s midfield looked unusually quiet, forcing play to the wings, while occasional lapses at the back offered ASKO glimpses of goal. Despite the shaky start, the Nigerian champions held firm to go into the break on level terms.

Just two minutes after the restart, Bayelsa found their breakthrough when ASKO defender Oumou Bani turned the ball into her own net under pressure. The early goal settled the Restoration Girls, who quickly took control of the contest.

Alaba Olabiyi doubled the lead in the 53rd minute with a fine finish before Shakirat Moshood scorer of Bayelsa’s opener in their first game wrapped up the win with a composed strike in the 80th minute.

It was not just about the goals. Bayelsa were compact at the back, earning their first clean sheet of the tournament. Bunmi Oladeji stood firm in defence, new signing Emem Essien impressed with her tireless work, while midfielder Vera Samuel stole the show. Samuel’s energy and vision dictated play after the opener, earning her the Player of the Match award.

Head coach Whyte Ogbonda, who had earlier described the tournament as a “tough path” for his side, will be pleased with the team’s progress as they edge closer to another CAF Women’s Champions League appearance.

With six points from two games, their final group match is against Sam Nelly of Benin on Saturday.