The North Central derby delivered high stakes and high drama as Nasarawa Amazons came from behind to defeat Naija Ratels 2-1 in the opening fixture of the playoffs on Saturday, May 10.
Naija Ratels struck first in the 12th minute when midfielder Rita Tsebee curled a stunning free-kick into the top corner, registering the first goal of the tournament and briefly silencing the Amazons’ dugout.
Unfazed by the early setback, the Amazons gradually gained control of midfield and leveled the score in the 40th minute. A clever pass from Ojiyovwi Kesiena unlocked the Ratels’ defense, allowing Janet Akekeromowei to calmly slot home and restore parity.
The Lafia-based side completed the comeback in the 55th minute through team captain and Super Falcons midfielder Josephine Matthias, who pounced on a loose ball at the edge of the area to deliver a composed finish.
Despite late pressure from the Ratels, Nasarawa held on to register a fifth straight win over their regional rivals and kick off their title charge with a confidence-boosting victory.
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