The inaugural Lagos Queens Cup began in spectacular fashion on Wednesday, as four entertaining fixtures lit up the Legacy Pitch in Surulere, Lagos, marking the start of a groundbreaking four-day scouting tournament dedicated to accelerating the growth of women’s football in Nigeria.
With international scouts from Finland and Sweden in attendance throughout the opening day, the tournament immediately delivered on its promise of providing a global platform for Nigeria’s emerging female football stars to showcase their talent before professional clubs abroad.
The opening ceremony attracted several respected figures within Nigerian football, including former Super Falcons defender Faith Ikidi-Michael, former Super Falcons midfielder Aishat Yusuf Aromire, and Gafar Liameed, whose presence underscored the significance of the competition in advancing women’s football development.
The standout performer of the day was Esther Onyenezide, whose clinical finishing inspired FC Robo Queens to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Dannaz Ladies. The prolific forward produced the tournament’s first hat-trick, displaying pace, composure and an eye for goal that undoubtedly caught the attention of the watching European scouts. Mariam Yahaya added the fourth goal to complete a commanding performance from one of Nigeria’s most respected women’s football academies.
Ayisat Yusuf FA also opened their campaign on a winning note with a composed 2-0 victory over Nakamura FA. Goals from Moses Esther and Olaleye Odunayo ensured a confident start for a side eager to challenge for the inaugural title.
In one of the day’s most tactical contests, CATS Ladies edged Dreamstar Ladies 1-0. Amaka Ibegbu’s decisive strike proved enough to separate both sides after a disciplined and fiercely contested encounter.
The final fixture provided the drama expected from elite competition as Victory Queens claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Asisat Oshoala Academy, bringing an exciting conclusion to an impressive opening day of football.
Beyond the scorelines, the Lagos Queens Cup continues to establish itself as more than just a tournament. It is a strategic platform designed to bridge the gap between grassroots football and the professional game by connecting talented Nigerian players with international opportunities.
The presence of three European scouts throughout the opening day highlighted the tournament’s growing international relevance and reinforced its objective of creating direct pathways for players seeking careers beyond Nigeria.
The Lagos Queens Cup is proudly supported by the Lagos State Football Association, 36 Lion Investment, Herizon Sports Initiative, Ayisat Yusuf Football Foundation, Diego Nakamura, Ivory Health Club and Africa Football Empowerment Congress, whose collective investment reflects a shared commitment to the sustainable development of women’s football.
The tournament continues on Thursday at the Legacy Pitch, with another full schedule of fixtures set to run from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. As the competition gathers momentum, more outstanding performances, compelling contests and potential breakthrough moments are expected as Nigeria’s next generation of women’s football stars continue their pursuit of international recognition.
