Delta Queens coach Tosan Blankson eyes President Federation Cup glory

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

After securing a 2-0 victory over Sunshine Queens and sealing a place in the semi-final of the 2024 President Federation Cup, Delta Queens head coach Tosan Blankson has set his sights on winning the prestigious title.

The 2022/2023 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership champions had a disappointing season defending their title, failing to qualify for the season-ending Super Six. As a consolation, Blankson and his team are determined to bring home the President Federation Cup to compensate their loyal fans.

The quarter-final clash with Sunshine Queens was tightly contested, with both teams going into the locker room goalless at halftime. However, decisive changes made by Blankson in the second half turned the tide, leading to a 2-0 victory.

“It was a fine game. Both sides played very well, especially in the first half. In the second half, that is why it is good to have a good bench. We made some changes to fortify the team, which brought the desired result,” Blankson told journalists after the match.

“Before this match, we knew that Sunshine Queens would be very tough. They are the only team in two years now that have scored two goals against us in a match.

“It is football. Anybody can go on relegation if you are not prepared.”

Blankson also addressed his current status with Delta Queens, revealing that he does not have a formal contract with the team. “For now, I don’t have a contract with Delta Queens. I am with Delta Queens because I was a staff at the Sports Commission. Now that I have retired, I am there for now.”

He emphasized the team’s focus on winning the President Federation Cup, saying, “Since we didn’t go for the Super Six, our target is to win the President Federation Cup, and by the grace of God, we will achieve that.”

Regarding the issue of owed salaries, Blankson confirmed that the government has settled most of the backlogs.

“The days after our last league match, they paid all backlogs of salaries. For now, they are not owing except for a month’s salary now. Plus this month, it is two months,” he concluded.