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As Bayelsa Queens gear up for their opening fixture against Ghana’s Police Ladies FC in the CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU B Qualifier, the club’s chairman, Robin Apreala, has expressed strong optimism about the team’s readiness, growth, and chances of securing a return to the continent’s biggest women’s football stage.
Speaking ahead of the encounter in Côte d’Ivoire, Apreala highlighted the meticulous groundwork that has gone into preparing the Prosperity Girls for another continental campaign.
“The girls are well-prepared, focused, and ready to compete after a solid pre-season,” he noted with conviction. According to him, the coaching crew, players, and management worked tirelessly in recent weeks to ensure that no stone was left unturned. The confidence in his voice reflected a deep belief that Bayelsa Queens are not only ready to compete but also ready to dominate..
One of the key improvements Apreala pointed out was the team’s increased balance across all departments. He explained that while Bayelsa Queens have always been known for their attacking flair, there has been a conscious effort to reinforce other areas of the squad.
“We’ve added more balance, especially in midfield and attack, while improving defensive stability,” the chairman emphasized. This, he believes, will give the team an edge against tough opponents, including the Ghanaian side, who are equally determined to make their mark in the tournament.
When asked about the club’s targets for the qualifier, Apreala didn’t mince words. “Our target is clear, qualify for the CAF Women’s Champions League,” he declared. For him, there is no alternative. Qualification is not just a desire; it is a mission that the players and management have embraced wholeheartedly.
Bayelsa Queens are not new to the continental stage, having previously represented Nigeria at the CAF Women’s Champions League. From that campaign, valuable lessons were drawn, and Apreala insists the team is better equipped this time.
“We learned the importance of focus, consistency, and minimizing mistakes at this level,” he explained. That experience, combined with the depth of the current squad, gives the chairman unshakeable confidence. “With our preparation and experience, we believe we can achieve it,” he added firmly..
No campaign of this magnitude is possible without strong institutional and financial backing, and Apreala was quick to acknowledge the crucial role of their supporters behind the scenes.
“The support of the state government and Premium Trust Bank have been excellent, from logistics to welfare, they’ve backed us fully,” he revealed. Such support, he stressed, has provided the players with the motivation and comfort to focus entirely on football, knowing they have the right structures behind them.
Finally, Apreala underscored the vital role of fans in pushing the team to greater heights. “The fans are our strength; their support and encouragement will inspire the girls to give their best,” he said passionately. Whether in Côte d’Ivoire or back home in Nigeria, the best way to get a flier for voices and cheers of Bayelsa Queens’ faithful will be the invisible fuel driving the Prosperity Girls forward.
