Defending champions Rivers Angels are one of fourteen teams set to begin their AITEO Cup campaign on Wednesday 30 August.
While two rounds (preliminary and round of 64) have already been decided in the men’s category, the women – having a lesser number of participating teams – are just getting in the thick of the action and the Jewel of Rivers take on Delta Babes in a Round of 32 tie at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium.
Last November, Rivers Angels claimed the 2016 Federation Cup (now AITEO Cup) title by defeating Bayelsa Queens 5-3 on penalties – after scores at regulation time stood at 1-1. They went on to clinch the League title as well, making themselves the team to beat ahead of this season.
Team Manager of the side, Matilda Otuene understands what it means to be tagged favourites, coupled with the fact that there is a prize money of ten million naira for the winners of this year’s edition.
“You know that every team that wants to play Rivers Angels is not taking it lightly so I think from previous experience we know it’s not going to be an easy game but I expect my players to absorb all pressure, go out there and deliver,” Otuene told the club’s media.
“This cup competition is one that you can never predict the outcome but we are not leaving any stone unturned.
“We don’t really know much about the opponents but I believe the technical crew are competent enough to study the game in the first ten minutes. So I believe the girls are ready to deliver come Wednesday,” she concluded.
Round of 32 Fixtures
Adamawa Queens Vs Edo Queens
FC Robo Queens Vs Delta Queens
Confluence Queens Vs Invincible Queens
Beautiful Tours Vs Moje Queens
Rivers Angels Vs Delta Babes
Bayelsa Queens Feeders Vs Fortress Ladies
Pelican Stars Vs Young Talents 99
Nine teams were drawn bye into the Round of 16, they are; Ben Women FC, Ibom Angels, Jokodolu Babes, Sure Babes, Sunshine Queens, Nasarawa Amazons, Osun Babes, Abia Angels and Bayelsa Queens.
