All eyes will be on the nation’s capital as Northern champions Plateau United Queens face off against Southern victors CATS Ladies in the highly anticipated final of the Inaugural Girls Play Sports Football Tournament, taking place this Sunday, September 29, 2024, in Abuja.
The tournament, which drew a total of 61 entries—40 from the South and 21 from the North—has been a remarkable showcase of grassroots women’s football talent across Nigeria.
Now, the two best teams will clash in the grand finale at the prestigious FIFA Goal Project, located near the NFF Headquarters inside Moshood Abiola National Stadium (Package B), Abuja. Kick-off is set for 2 p.m.
On their journey to the finals, Plateau United Queens battled their way to the final with a string of gritty performances. After defeating local rivals Mighty Jets Mata 2-1 at the Jos center, they progressed to the Abuja playoffs, where they narrowly edged out Nazareth Queens and Moje Queens Feeders with 1-0 victories to claim their spot in the national final.
On the other side, CATS Ladies displayed early dominance with a 2-0 win over SGH Sports Amazons at the Lagos center. Their semifinal against Victory Queens ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw, with CATS triumphing 8-7 in a dramatic penalty shootout.
They then comfortably beat STM Doves 2-0 to secure the Lagos center crown. In the Southern playoffs, CATS maintained their momentum, thrashing Adewale Babes 4-0 and drawing 1-1 with Royaltoms Queens to book their place in the final.
Speaking ahead of the final, CATS Ladies’ head coach, Ukandu Chinasa, expressed his team’s readiness to challenge for the coveted title glory.
“The girls have put in the hard work, and now it’s time to showcase that on the biggest stage. We respect Plateau United Queens, but we’re confident and ready to take the trophy home.”
Plateau United Queens head coach, Edward Weng, also shared his optimism.
“Our girls have shown resilience throughout the tournament. We’re up against a strong side, but we’re focused on the ultimate goal—lifting the championship.”
Founder and chairman of the organizing committee, Honorable Ayo Omidiran, praised the teams and the tournament’s success.
“This competition has been a remarkable display of the immense talent and potential in Nigerian women’s football. Both teams have earned their place in the final, and I’m proud of how far they’ve come,” said the two-time House of Representative member.
“The legacy of this tournament will continue to inspire the next generation of female athletes. I wish both teams the best as they compete for the ultimate prize.”
The winning team will walk away with a cash prize of two million naira, while the runners-up will receive one million naira, recognizing their exceptional efforts throughout the competition.
