Vihiga Queens gear up for CAF Women's Champions League  qualifiers opener with high hopes

©Imago

FOOTBALL Vihiga Queens gear up for CAF Women's Champions League qualifiers opener with high hopes

Festus Chuma 09:18 - 13.08.2023

Kenyan powerhouse to clash with Zanzibar's New Generations FC in CECAFA Zone's Group B battle.

Football Kenya Federation Women’s Premier League champions Vihiga Queens FC are gearing up for their opening match in the CAF Women’s Champions League – CECAFA Zone against New Generations FC from Zanzibar. 

The highly anticipated clash is set to take place on Sunday at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Kampala, and the excitement is palpable among players, coaching staff, and fans alike.

Coach Charles Okere, who masterminded Vihiga Queens' historic triumph in the 2021 CECAFA tournament, is confident that his team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. 

Speaking ahead of the match, Okere emphasized the importance of a strong start in such competitions. 

"It is always good to get a good start in such tournaments because this will give us momentum," he stated. 

Defender Phoebe, who recently rejoined Vihiga Queens from Hakkarigucuspor Women FC in Turkey, is expected to play a pivotal role in the starting lineup. 

The team will be led by skipper Merceline Wayodi, a stalwart of the squad, alongside Ugandan international Winnie Babirye, whose experience and prowess on the field will undoubtedly be invaluable assets.

 “ We are more than ready to battle and my players are looking forward to another good show,” Okere added.

Vihiga Queens, the 2021 Zonal champions, had to sit out defending their title last year due to Kenya's suspension by FIFA. 

Despite this setback, the team has not wavered in their determination to excel on the continental stage.

The upcoming match against New Generations FC presents a golden opportunity for Vihiga Queens to make their mark and showcase their capabilities once again.

The opening Group B encounter is just one part of a thrilling day of football action at the MTN Omondi Stadium.

 In the second match of the group, Tanzania Women’s Premier League champions JKT Queens will go head-to-head against AS Kigali Women from Rwanda. 

The CAF Women's Champions League – CECAFA Zone kicked off in grand style with an early Group A fixture that saw Ethiopian side CBE emerge victorious against Buja Queens of Burundi with a 2-1 scoreline at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru.

 In the second match of the day, Kampala Queens demonstrated their prowess by defeating Yei Joint Stars 3-0 at the same venue in another Group A encounter.