Bayelsa Queens edge Edo Queens as NWFL Premiership Kicks Off with Drama across nine centres
The 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season kicked off in thrilling fashion on Wednesday, November 26, with defending champions Bayelsa Queens edging Edo Queens 3–2 in a dramatic opener at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.
Rebecca Adegbemile had put Edo Queens ahead midway through the first half, but Kindness Ifeanyi equalised before the interval. Janet Akekerowei fired Bayelsa into the lead early in the second half, only for Adanna Nwachukwu to restore parity late on.
Just when the game seemed destined for a draw, Blessing Ilivieda struck in stoppage time to hand the Prosperity Girls all three points against last season’s champions.
Elsewhere, Adamawa Queens began their campaign with a 2–0 win over debutants Pacesetter Queens in Makurdi, courtesy of goals from Ifeoma Damian and Mary Sunday.
Heartland Queens staged a comeback in Owerri, overturning Amarachi Okoronkwo’s opener to defeat Ekiti Queens 2–1 through strikes from Chizoba Johnson and Emmanuella James.
Naija Ratels were held to a goalless draw by Ibom Angels in Abuja despite dominating possession, while Nasarawa Amazons, runners-up last season, came from behind to beat Dannaz Ladies 2–1 thanks to quickfire goals from Olushola Shobowale and Hembafan Ayatsea after Nora Davies had given the visitors the lead.
In Iyamho, Abia Angels played out a 2–2 draw with Confluence Queens, while FC Robo Queens secured a narrow 1–0 away win over Sunshine Queens in Akure through Marvellous Oladuni’s decisive strike.
Dannaz Ladies edged Osun Babes 3–2 in a five-goal thriller at Onikan, Lagos, and newcomers Ahudiyannem Queens were held to a 0–0 draw by Remo Stars Ladies in Umuahia to round off an eventful Matchday One.
