Nigeria Leagues
NWFL Premiership Super Six MD 1 Wrap: Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens, and Remo Stars off to winning start
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
The highly anticipated Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership Super Six Playoffs got underway with three games at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, Ogun state.
The three games ended in favour of Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens, and Remo Stars Ladies.
In the opening match, Nasarawa Amazons edge Naija Ratels 2-1 in the North Central derby, extending their dominance over the Abuja-based side-to-side straight wins.
The Solid Babes had to come from behind after Rita Tsebee scored the first goal of the Playoffs from a wonderful free kick in the 12th minute.
The goal spurred Christopher Danjuma’s side into action as they searched for the leveler.
With a touch of excellence, Janet Akekeromowei equalized for the Lafia-based side from Ojiyovwi Kesiena’s assist in the 40th minute.
After the interval, the Amazons got the game-winner in the 55th minute as Nigeria international Josephine Matthias showed true leadership to score the all-important goal.
Naija Ratels’ late efforts to equalize were abortive as Nasarawa Amazons secured their first win of the Playoffs as they aim to win their first title since 2017.
In the second match, which was another derby between two teams from South-South, Bayelsa Queens edged Rivers Angels 1-0.
Alaba Obabiyi scored a superb screamer to win the match for the Prosperity Girls in the 34th minute.
Bayelsa Queens goalkeeper, Monle Omini put up player of the match performance by saving Ifeoma Ikenokwalu’s penalty.
She also made several saves to deny the Jewels of Rivers any point in their quest to reclaim the league title for the first time since 2021.
In the evening match, Remo Stars Ladies pipped holders, Edo Queens 1-0 in a nervy contest.
Olasubomi Ogundele’s late goal in the 88th minute separated both sides.
Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens, and Remo Stars Ladies have three points while Naija Ratels, Rivers Angels, and Edo Queens have no point ahead of Matchday two.
Sunday, May 12, will be observed as a rest day, while Matchday 2 is scheduled for Monday, May 13.
