Ugochukwu Iwuchukwu
Abiodun Deborah and Ezenagu Maryann goals in each half ensured Rivers Angels kicked off their WAFU Zonal qualifying game with a deserved win inside the Stade Robert Champroux in Abidjan over the weekend.
Abiodun slotted home in the 17th minute through a well-calculated cross from Vivian Ikechukwu to put the Jewel Of Rivers in front.
In the 52nd minute, Ezenagu made a solo run into the box to double the lead for the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership Champions.
Ogebe Alice and Ikekhua Oghenebrume came close to increasing the tally for the Jewel Of Rivers but failed to hit the back of the net.
Ezenagu’s impeccable performance earned her Player of the Match award.
Head coach, Edwin Okon after the win said the game was a good one.
“It was a good game and I actually respect Hasaacas Ladies because for even making it to this level”, Okon said.
“I am grateful to God for giving us this victory which was a hard-fought one in that matter.
“We actually matched their formation and followed them strength by strength and that gave us an edge over them.
“We don’t underrate terms so every team has got their quality and I respect them. I’m just happy with the win we got”, he added.
Up next for the Jewel of Rivers is AS Police de Niamey (Niger) on July 27 by 6 pm Local time.
The top two teams from each group will proceed to the semi-finals with the winners qualifying for the final and eventually the inaugural CAF Women’s Champions League which will be held in Egypt.
