Police Ladies stumble in WAFU opener, vow swift response

Police Ladies were given a harsh reality check in Yamoussoukro yesterday as their CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU Zone B qualifying campaign got off to a stuttering start with a 2-1 defeat to Nigeria’s Bayelsa Queens.

The Ghana Women’s Premier League champions, tipped by many to make a strong impression in the competition, were undone by early nerves and the big-game experience of their Nigerian opponents, who had bolstered their ranks with proven continental campaigners. 

Shakirat Moshood and Emem Essien — both veterans of last season’s Champions League with Edo Queens — struck the decisive blows, their know-how shining through.

Captain Mary Berko offered Police a lifeline with a spirited second-half reply, but the Ghanaians could not force an equaliser, leaving coach Yusif Basigi with plenty to ponder ahead of a crucial week.

It is not uncharted territory for the veteran coach. In 2021, his Hasaacas Ladies side also lost their opener — coincidentally against Nigerian giants Rivers Angels — before storming all the way to the final.

He will be desperate to draw on that blueprint once more.

“This isn’t the start we wanted, but it’s not the end,” Basigi said afterwards. “We know what is at stake, and we’ll come back stronger.”

That comeback bid begins on Wednesday against Benin’s Sam Nelly, before Saturday’s group finale with ASKO from Togo. Nothing less than victory in midweek will keep Police Ladies’ dream alive of progressing to the main tournament.