Federation Cup: Opatola hails ‘determined’ Fortress Ladies after Honey Badgers upset

By Wale Mustapha

Head Coach of Fortress Ladies, Wole Opatola has hailed the spirited performance of his girls in their 2-1 comeback Women’s Federation Cup Round of 16 win over Honey Badgers in Lokoja on Thursday.

Nigerian amateur side pulled off an upset, coming from a goal down to book a quarterfinal place of the cup tourney as Okundia Aisosa cancelled Janet Ikpa first lead for Markudi side Badgers before Caroline Itebiye winner came 10 minutes from time for the Edo State FA Cup vice champions at the Confluence Stadium in Lokoja.

And the journalist turned UEFA licensed manager admitted that the victory was down to his side’s determination and hunger to succeed from the girls, while sharing his optimism going as far as they can in the competition.

“I’m still trying to process it (the win) because its satisfying to see your hard work paying off especially in such circumstances,” Opatola told NigeriaFootball.ng.

“We gave it all and remained composed with our approach as we knew they will create that moments for us come at them and I’m happy we were able to utilize them.

“The team deserves all the credits and I commend their commitments and dedication which has paid off here, we will continue to build on what we achieve today going forward.”

Fortress Ladies have been paired with Bayelsa Queens in the Quarterfinal of the Women’s Federation Cup that will take place in Calabar, Cross Rivers State on 18th of May, 2023.

The amateur side will also be participating at the NWFL Nationwide League playoffs later in the month.