Comprehensive report of what happened on matchday one of the 2024/2025 NWFL season
The 2024/2025 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) season kicked off today, January 15, 2025, with exciting matchday one fixtures across various centres. Defending champions Edo Queens made a strong statement by dismantling Abia Angels 5-0 in Benin, setting the tone for what promises to be an action-packed season.
Edo Queens Dominate in Benin
Edo Queens, the reigning champions, showcased their superiority in a one-sided affair against Abia Angels. Goals from Miracle Usani, Emem Essien, Goodness Osigwe, Loveth Edet, and Kafayat Mafisere sealed the emphatic victory. The Queens’ clinical performance was a clear reminder of why they are the team to beat this season.
Matchday Highlights
Yenagoa:
Bayelsa Queens edged Delta Queens 1-0 in a tense encounter, thanks to a last-gasp goal from Sefiat Idris in the 94th minute.
Port Harcourt:
Rivers Angels triumphed 2-1 over Ibom Angels in a dramatic match that saw two own goals. Helen Daniel’s early misfortune was overturned by Ifeoma Ikenokwalu’s winner after Joy Michael’s own goal had temporarily levelled the score.
Ado Ekiti:
Ekiti Queens began their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Heartland Queens, courtesy of a 74th-minute strike from Odunayo Olaleye.
Anyigba:
Remo Stars Ladies stunned Confluence Queens 3-1 in an away win. Idayat Olanrewaju, Olasubomi Ogundele, and Oluwaseyi Arubo were on target for the visitors, while Olamide Bolaji netted the hosts’ consolation goal.
Lafia:
Nasarawa Amazons secured a late 1-0 victory over Dannaz Ladies, with Shola Shobowale scoring the decisive goal in the 90th minute.
Gombe:
Adamawa Queens and Naija Ratels played out a 1-1 draw. Tunmininu Adeshina put Adamawa ahead, but Injimaco Mnunenge responded immediately for the visitors.
Benue Queens Suffer Heavy Defeat
Robo Queens were ruthless in Lafia, thrashing Benue Queens 5-1. Tosin Rafiu’s brace and goals from Favour Nkwocha, Annastasia Emefo (penalty), Kemi Adegbuyi, and Mariam Yahaya ensured a dominant display.
Looking Ahead
With the first round of matches concluded, Edo Queens’ performance underlines their determination to retain the NWFL title. However, strong showings from teams like Robo Queens and Bayelsa Queens suggest a competitive season lies ahead.
