The Second Edition of the Halimatu Ayinde Women’s 5-a-side Football Cup ended in thrilling fashion as Gallant Queens edged Ysfon Queens 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time to claim the championship on Sunday, December 8, 2024 in Kaduna.
Earlier at the Muritala Square Stadium, Kaduna, Kundenda Queens secured third place with a dominant 4-0 victory over Wisdom Queens in the third-place match.
In a novelty match, SWAN President Isaiah Benjamin inspired Kaduna SWAN to a 2-1 win over the Friends of Halimatu Ayinde.
Beluaa Adeboyega of Kundenda Queens was named Young Player of the Tournament, while Queen Akungolaju, also of Kundenda Queens, won both the Highest Scorer (8 goals) and Player of the Tournament awards.
In individual awards, Augustina Boniface of Ysfon Queens emerged as the Best Goalkeeper, with Mrs. Grace of Wisdom Queens awarded Best Coach. Favour Johnson was recognized as Fan of the Tournament.
As champions, Gallant Queens received a ₦150,000 cash prize for their victory, Ysfon Queens were awarded ₦100,000 for second place, and Kundenda Queens earned ₦50,000 for finishing third.
Gallant Queens’ coach, Adebiyi Adekunle, lauded his team’s resilience, saying, “The players showed incredible determination and composure to win the title against tough opposition.”
Rosengard forward and Nigeria international Halimatu Ayinde expressed her delight with the tournament’s success, stating, “This competition is about empowering women through football, and I’m thrilled to see such talent and passion on display.”
The well-attended finals had in attendance the President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Musa Nimrod; SWAN President Isaiah Benjamin; and other government dignitaries who commended the initiative for its role in grassroots sports development.
Organizers, Grace John extended their heartfelt appreciation to the Kaduna State Government, stakeholders, and the media for their invaluable support in making the tournament a success. Their contributions were instrumental in promoting the vision of fostering grassroots development in women’s football.
The tournament showcased exceptional talent, reaffirming Ayinde’s commitment to promoting women’s football at the grassroots level.
