As excitement builds for the 2024/25 CAF Women’s Champions League, Edo Queens’ head coach Moses Aduku spoke exclusively to CAFOnline.com, discussing his team’s journey and goals.
Following their victory in the WAFU B tournament, which secured their place in the prestigious competition, Aduku shared insights into their preparations, aspirations, and the evolving landscape of women’s football in Africa.
“We weren’t just there to compete but to win,” said Aduku about their WAFU B triumph. Edo Queens impressed in their debut, winning against Niger (1-0), Ghana (3-0), Burkina Faso (1-0), and eventually defeating the hosts Côte d’Ivoire (2-1) in the semifinals before clinching the title with a 3-0 victory over the Republic of Benin. “It wasn’t easy, but hard work pays off,” he reflected on the journey.uee
As the team gears up for their first appearance in the CAF Women’s Champions League, Aduku is confident in his squad. “We certainly don’t want to come back empty-handed,” he emphasized, outlining their ambition to lift the trophy.
He also expressed gratitude for the support from the Edo State government, which has provided resources for their focused training environment.
When asked which players fans should watch out for, Aduku highlighted the collective strength of his team rather than individual stars. “Our strength lies in the team as a whole,” he noted, underlining the importance of unity on the field as they prepare for continental competition.
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Aduku believes that the CAF Women’s Champions League is a vital step in elevating the status of women’s football on the continent.
“Before its inception, players had no real stakes after their national leagues ended. Now, everyone wants to compete on the continental stage,” he said.
He also suggested expanding the number of participating teams from eight to twelve to increase competitiveness and opportunities for more clubs.
As one of Nigeria’s representatives, Aduku acknowledged the pressure that comes with the country’s rich legacy in women’s football. “Yes, we are giants of African football, but preparation is key,” he said.
Edo Queens have been given the platform to prepare thoroughly, thanks to support from the Edo State government. “The expectation is high since we’ve never won this title before, but we are committed to overcoming that pressure.”
Reflecting on the achievements of past Nigerian teams, such as Bayelsa Queens who reached the semifinals, Aduku hopes Edo Queens can learn from their experience and capitalize on key moments in the tournament.
Aduku made it clear that their ultimate goal is to win the CAF Women’s Champions League trophy, knowing full well the challenges that lie ahead. “We aim for nothing less than lifting the trophy,” he declared. 
For him personally, this platform is an opportunity to further his coaching career on the continental stage, as he looks to enhance his resume and that of his players.
With the growth of the women’s game in Africa, Aduku is optimistic about the future. “Women’s football in Africa is growing tremendously. No team is a pushover anymore,” he observed, adding that the growing competition is pushing teams to new heights.
Finally, Aduku had a heartfelt message for Edo Queens supporters and Nigerian football fans. “I urge our fans to pray for us and expect great performances from the team,” he concluded, asking for the continued backing of their supporters as they take on Africa’s best in the CAF Women’s Champions League.
With preparations well underway, Edo Queens are set to compete with fierce determination, looking to bring continental glory back to Nigeria. Fans eagerly await their debut in what promises to be an exciting tournament.
