NWFL Matchday One: Preview and Predictions
The 2024/2025 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) season kicks off on Wednesday, 15 January 2025, with exciting matches across eight centres. The opening day promises thrilling action, highlighted by two South-South derbies and other intriguing fixtures as teams aim for early momentum.
In this article, SportsRation’s Nsikakabasi Akpan presents preview and predictions for 2025 NWFL matchday one matches.
Group A Matches
Edo Queens vs Abia Angels – Benin City
Defending champions Edo Queens host Abia Angels in the official Star Match at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, broadcast live on NTA and Startimes.
Edo Queens, led by coach Moses Aduku, will look to build on their successful campaign last season, which included winning the league and reaching the CAF Women’s Champions League final. In contrast, Abia Angels, under new coach Adanna Nwaneri, aim to improve after narrowly avoiding relegation last season.
Prediction: Edo Queens to win, but Abia Angels may prove stubborn opponents.
Ekiti Queens vs Heartland Queens – Ado Ekiti
At the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ekiti Queens face Heartland Queens for the first time in top-flight history. Ekiti Queens hope to avoid another relegation battle under new coach Jacob Vandhi, while Heartland Queens aim to build on their surprise Super Six qualification last season.
Prediction: A close match with Heartland Queens edging it.
Confluence Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies – Anyigba
Confluence Queens, Super Six contenders last season, host Remo Stars Ladies at the Anyigba City Stadium. Remo Stars had a promising debut campaign and have shown good form in pre-season tournaments like the Sheroes Cup.
Prediction: A draw, with both teams showcasing attacking football.
Nasarawa Amazons vs Dannaz Ladies – Lafia
Nasarawa Amazons kick off their campaign against Dannaz Ladies at Lafia City Stadium. The Amazons, top finishers in Group A last season, are determined to reclaim their dominance. Dannaz Ladies, entering their second season, will seek to make a strong impression.
Prediction: Nasarawa Amazons to win comfortably.
Group B Matches
Rivers Angels vs Ibom Angels – Port Harcourt
Rivers Angels, runners-up in the Super Six last season, face newly promoted Ibom Angels in a South-South derby. With coach Tosan Blankson at the helm, Rivers Angels aim to go one step further this season. Ibom Angels, led by Edwin Okon, will focus on maintaining their top-flight status.
Prediction: Rivers Angels are favourites but a compact Ibom Angels squad will be hard to break.
Adamawa Queens vs Naija Ratels FC – Gombe
In a Northern derby, Adamawa Queens host Naija Ratels at the Pantami Stadium. Both teams finished level on points last season, but Adamawa Queens will aim to repeat their 2-0 victory from their last meeting.
Prediction: Adamawa Queens to edge a narrow win.
Benue Queens vs FC Robo Queens – Lafia
Newly promoted Benue Queens take on experienced campaigners FC Robo Queens. While Benue Queens aim for a strong debut under coach Liadi Bashiru, FC Robo Queens will be determined to secure early points in their quest for a league title.
Prediction: FC Robo Queens to win, but Benue Queens could surprise.
Bayelsa Queens vs Delta Queens – Yenagoa
The second South-South derby of Matchday 1 pits Bayelsa Queens against Delta Queens at the Samson Siasia Stadium. Both teams, under new coaches, will look to start their campaigns on a high note.
Prediction: A tightly contested draw, with both sides sharing the spoils.
Exciting Start to the Season
The 2024/2025 NWFL Premiership season promises an action-packed opening day. Fans can expect intense rivalries, fresh matchups, and a glimpse of what the season holds for the competing teams.
