Ahudiyannem Queens make podium finish in Governor Diri Pre-Season Tournament

Ahudiyannem Queens FC recovered from semi-final disappointment to secure third place at the 2026 Governor Diri Women’s Pre-Season Football Tournament, defeating hosts Bayelsa Queens FC 8–7 on penalties after a goalless draw at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.

The Queens showed resilience to overcome their hosts in a tense third-place encounter, ending their campaign on a positive note after missing out on a place in the final.

Having lost to Delta Queens in the semi-finals via a penalty shootout, Ahudiyannem Queens approached the bronze-medal match determined to salvage something from their campaign.

Despite the disappointment of successive defeats to Rivers Angels and Delta Queens, the team regrouped to deliver a disciplined performance against Bayelsa Queens.

Neither side could find the breakthrough during regulation time, with both teams battling fiercely in a closely contested encounter that ultimately required a penalty shootout to determine the winner.

Ahudiyannem Queens held their nerve from the spot, converting their kicks to secure an 8–7 victory and claim third place.

The result provided a measure of redemption for the team, which had suffered penalty heartbreak in the semi-finals. This time, however, the Queens emerged victorious to finish the tournament with a deserved podium place.

Technical Adviser Adanna Nwaneri Anah expressed delight at the victory, describing the moment as overwhelming and giving thanks to God for the opportunity to celebrate.

“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 announced their quality in the group stage, winning all three matches to finish top of Group B with nine points and advance to the semi-finals.

Although reaching the final remained their primary objective, the third-place finish offered a positive conclusion to their campaign and valuable preparation ahead of the 2026/2027 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) season.

The team also had another reason to celebrate, as striker Temitope Owoeye emerged as the tournament’s highest goalscorer, adding an individual accolade to the club’s third-place achievement.

Meanwhile, Nasarawa Amazons retained the tournament title after defeating Delta Queens 1–0 in the final.

For Ahudiyannem Queens, the victory over Bayelsa Queens represented more than a third-place finish. It was a statement of resilience, providing a timely confidence boost as the team continues preparations for the new NWFL season.