NWFL: Naija Ratels earn praise after securing Super Six spot with Bayelsa Queens draw

By Wale Mustapha

Naija Ratels head coach Samson Keshi has applauded his players following their goalless draw against Bayelsa Queens in the final group-stage match of the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) held on Wednesday in Abuja.

The result was enough to secure the Abuja-based club a place in the Super Six playoffs—the season-ending tournament that will determine the 2025 NWFL champions.

Speaking after the match, Keshi praised the team’s performance against what he described as one of the toughest sides in the league.

“I’ve played Bayelsa Queens almost two to three times now, and I know they are one of the best teams in the country,” Keshi said.

“I give my girls one hundred percent praise because for them to come out with a point and qualify for the Super Six ahead of others in our zone is a big achievement.”

Keshi also assured fans of the team’s commitment to success in the upcoming playoffs.

“The Super Six will be a different ball game,” he said. “I promise we’ll give it our all and aim to reach the final.”

Naija Ratels will join defending champions Edo Queens, Bayelsa Queens, Nasarawa Amazons, and Rivers Angels in the Super Six tournament, which is scheduled to take place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne from May 8 to 17, 2025.