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NWFL Premiership Returns: Blockbuster fixtures as 2025/26 season kicks off across Nigeria
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
The 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season officially kicks off on Wednesday, November 26, with 10 fixtures across two groups. Twenty top-flight clubs will battle for early momentum in a campaign expected to deliver high-stakes competition, debutante surprises, and renewed rivalries.
The headline fixture sees defending champions Bayelsa Queens welcome Edo Queens, winners of the 2023/24 season, in a high-profile South-South derby at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.
This matchup has evolved into one of the league’s marquee encounters. Historically, Bayelsa Queens hold the upper hand, winning four of their last seven meetings, while Edo Queens have secured just one victory. Edo’s hard-fought 1–0 win at the 2025 Super Six remains the only blemish on Bayelsa’s near-perfect campaign last season. With both sides boasting seasoned players and several national team stars, this opening-day battle could set the tempo for a potentially fierce title race.
Group A Fixtures
Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetter Queens (Makwada)
Pacesetter Queens make their top-flight debut after an ambitious recruitment campaign blending youth and experience. They aim to mirror the survival feats of recent South West newcomers such as Remo Stars Ladies and Dannaz Ladies. Adamawa Queens, seventh in Group B last season, will depend on midfield stability and defensive organization to withstand Pacesetter’s dynamic frontline. Expect a tight, tactical contest.
Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens (Owerri)
Both clubs claimed 1–0 home wins in their meetings last season. Heartland Queens, eager to bounce back from an underwhelming campaign, have boosted their attacking options. Ekiti Queens—entering their third straight top-flight season—will focus on maintaining stability. The match promises intense midfield battles and cautious tactical play as each side hunts for an early statement result.
Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels (Bwari, Abuja)
Naija Ratels seek redemption after a disappointing Super Six outing where they lost all matches, extending their losing streak to 10 games. Ibom Angels, guided by veteran coach Edwin Okon, narrowly missed Super Six qualification last season and begin the new campaign with high expectations. Both sides won their home meetings 2–1 last term, suggesting another closely contested clash where fine margins could decide the outcome.
Castmog Ladies vs Rivers Angels (Abeokuta)
This fixture has been called off, with Rivers Angels granted a bye after Castmog Ladies were relegated for failing to meet registration and club-licensing requirements. Before the cancellation, the match had been considered a potential upset, with Castmog impressing during qualification and Rivers Angels entering as favourites despite their recent 1–1 draw against Remo Stars Ladies in Ogun State.
Group B Fixtures
Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens (Lafia)
Nasarawa Amazons—perennial contenders—begin another title push after narrowly missing out last season. Delta Queens, champions in 2022/23 but absent from the Super Six for two straight seasons, are determined to re-establish themselves among the elite. Both teams secured 1–0 home wins against each other last season, pointing to a cautious tactical encounter where clinical finishing could be decisive.
Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels (Iyamho)
Confluence Queens endured a difficult campaign last season, losing 11 of 14 matches, yet boast a favourable overall record against Abia Angels (four wins, one draw, two losses). However, Abia Angels have won the last two meetings—including a narrow 1–0 victory—and will aim to maintain that momentum. Expect a high-tempo game as Confluence seeks revival and Abia targets stability.
Sunshine Queens vs FC Robo Queens (Akure)
Newly promoted Sunshine Queens aim to avoid being dragged into a relegation fight. FC Robo Queens hold a slight advantage in recent meetings with three wins in five, though Sunshine’s emphatic 3–0 victory in their last clash adds intrigue. This matchup could hinge on Sunshine’s defensive structure against Robo’s trademark attacking flair.
Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies (Abiriba)
Topflight debutants Ahudiyannem Queens—coached by former Super Falcons assistant Ann Chiejine—face Remo Stars Ladies, who reached the Super Six last season under Wemimo Matthew. The meeting between the two CAF A-licensed women’s coaches promises rigorous tactical adjustments, discipline, and structure. Last season’s thrilling 2–2 draw in Umuahia underscores the potential for another closely fought contest.
Dannaz Ladies vs Osun Babes (Lagos)
In a fresh South West derby, Dannaz Ladies welcome newly promoted Osun Babes. The visitors have historically struggled in Lagos—their last outing there ended in a 3–1 loss to FC Robo Queens in 2020/21. Both sides will aim to establish early momentum, with set pieces and tactical discipline likely to shape the contest.
A Season Poised for Drama
With debutants eager to impress, traditional powerhouses chasing glory, and several coaches with national team pedigree on the touchlines, the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership promises an explosive start. From heavyweight clashes to rising challengers, fans are set for a season filled with drama, tactical depth, and fierce competition across venues nationwide.
