Ibadan Set For Inaugural Queens Cup
By Saheed Afolabi
The maiden edition of the Queens Cup Southwest Preseason Tournament takes center stage from Monday, November 3rd to Sunday, November 9th, 2025, at the iconic Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
The elite preseason competition, powered by Assamokee International, will feature ten Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) clubs six Premiership sides and four Championship teams in what promises to be a high-intensity showcase of women’s football at its finest.
Supported by the Oyo State Government and officially endorsed by the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), the Queens Cup is more than just a preseason tournament. It represents a bold statement of intent a platform to elevate the standard, visibility, and competitiveness of women’s football in Nigeria.
Founder of Assamokee International, Dr. AbdulRahmon Abolore, reaffirmed that the competition’s core mission is to develop the women’s game through structured, data-driven preparation and competitive exposure.
“The Queens Cup is not just a tournament, it’s a launchpad. Every match at Lekan Salami Stadium will give clubs high-level competition, full match analysis, and the opportunity to nurture players to their best abilities ahead of the new season.”
Highlighting the demanding format of the eight-day tournament, which will see teams tested against various tactical systems, Dr. Abolore emphasized that the intensity was intentional.
“Preseason isn’t about results, it’s about readiness. Our teams will face different styles possession, counter-attack, high press in just eight days. That intensity sharpens tactics, builds fitness, and exposes weaknesses before the NWFL Premiership kicks off. We’re giving coaches the perfect stress test.”
He also noted the Queens Cup’s crucial role in spotlighting new and emerging players discovered during regional scouting and open trials.
“We’ve seen raw talent in open trials, like Pacesetter Queens’ new signings and hidden gems from other clubs. The Queens Cup will put them on camera.”
Speaking on the symbolic choice of Ibadan as host city, Dr. Abolore described the decision as both strategic and visionary.
“Ibadan is the new heartbeat of women’s football. Hosting the Queens Cup here sends a message the women’s game belongs in our biggest stadiums, not the back fields. With Oyo State Government support and NWFL endorsement, we’re planting a flag. Next year, we go bigger.”
The ten participating teams in the maiden Queens Cup Southwest Preseason Tourney are, Pacesetter Queens, FC Robo Queens, Dannaz Ladies, Remo Stars Ladies, Osun Babes, Castmog Ladies, Unification Ladies, Wazbak Queens, Chosen Generation, and DreamStar Ladies.
