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Ahudiyannem Queens FC bounced back from consecutive defeats to secure third place at the 2026 Governor Diri Women’s Pre-Season Football Tournament, edging hosts Bayelsa Queens FC 8–7 on penalties after a fiercely contested goalless draw at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.
The Queens, who suffered a semi-final heartbreak against Delta Queens after losing on penalties, entered the third-place encounter determined to end their campaign on a positive note, despite the disappointment of missing out on their target of reaching the final.
Their resolve was tested further following successive defeats to Rivers Angels and Delta Queens, results that left the team demoralised and saw many write off their chances of finishing the tournament strongly.
However, Ahudiyannem Queens refused to surrender to disappointment, picking themselves up to deliver a determined performance against the host club in a tense battle that lasted throughout the regulation 90 minutes.
Both sides fought hard for the breakthrough, with neither able to find the back of the net in a closely contested encounter. The match remained goalless from beginning to end, forcing the third-place contest into a penalty shootout.
With the pressure mounting, the Queens displayed remarkable composure from the spot, converting their kicks to secure an 8–7 victory over Bayelsa Queens and bring their tournament campaign to a satisfying conclusion.
The victory represented a measure of redemption for Ahudiyannem Queens, who had endured the disappointment of a penalty shootout defeat in the semi-finals. This time, however, they held their nerve to finish on the winning side and claim the bronze position.
Technical Adviser Adanna Nwaneri Anah expressed delight at the result, describing the victory as an overwhelming moment for the team.
“This victory is so amazing, so beautiful. In fact, I don’t know how to describe it. It is so overwhelming. I am happy, I am grateful to God who gave us this opportunity to celebrate. I return all the glory to God,” she said.
Ahudiyannem Queens had earlier demonstrated their strength in the group stage, winning all three matches to finish top of Group B with nine points before advancing to the semi-finals.
Although reaching the final remained the team’s primary target, their third-place finish offered a positive ending to a challenging campaign and valuable match experience ahead of the 2026/2027 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) season.
Ahudiyannem Queens got icing on their cake as striker Temitope Owoeye won the individual award of highest goal scorer.
Nasarawa Amazons retained the tournament title after defeating Delta Queens 1–0 in the final.
For Ahudiyannem Queens, the victory over Bayelsa Queens was more than a fight for third place; it was an opportunity to recover from disappointment, restore confidence and demonstrate the fighting spirit needed as preparations continue for the new NWFL season.
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