2025/2026 NWFL Season Opener: Bayelsa Queens Ready to Defend Title Against Edo Queens

Posted : 26 November 2025

The 2025/2026 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season officially kicks off on Wednesday, Nov. 26, with 10 matches across two groups.

Twenty topflight clubs will battle for early momentum in a campaign expected to deliver high-stakes competition, debutante surprises, and renewed rivalries.

Defending champions Bayelsa Queens will host 2023/24 winners Edo Queens in a mouthwatering South-South derby at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa. This fixture has rapidly become one of the league’s most anticipated matchups. Historically, Bayelsa Queens hold a superior record, winning four of the last seven encounters, while Edo Queens have secured just one victory. Edo’s most recent 1–0 win during the 2025 Super Six is the only blemish on Bayelsa Queens’ perfect run last season.

With both sides boasting experienced squads and national team players, the opening clash could set the tone for a season-long title battle.

Group A Fixtures Preview:

Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetter Queens (Makwada): Pacesetter Queens make their topflight debut after extensive recruitment, blending youthful energy with seasoned campaigners. Adamawa Queens, aiming to improve on their seventh-place finish in Group B last season, will rely on midfield stability and defensive discipline to counter Pacesetter’s dynamic front line. A tightly contested match with tactical battles is expected.

Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens (Owerri): Last season, both clubs secured narrow home wins of 1–0 in their respective encounters. Heartland Queens, looking to rebound from an underwhelming campaign, have strengthened their attacking options, while Ekiti Queens enter their third consecutive topflight season determined to maintain league status. This fixture promises intense midfield duels and strategic play.

Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels (Abuja): Naija Ratels aim to shake off a disappointing Super Six showing, where they lost all matches, extending their losing streak to 10 games. Ibom Angels, under veteran tactician Edwin Okon, narrowly missed Super Six qualification last term and will look to begin their title challenge with a confident performance. Both teams won their respective home fixtures 2–1 last season, suggesting a competitive encounter.

Castmog Ladies vs Rivers Angels (Abeokuta): The fixture has been called off, as Rivers Angels were granted a bye following Castmog’s relegation due to failure to meet registration and club-licensing requirements. Prior to cancellation, the matchup had been billed as a potential upset, with debutants Castmog impressing during qualification.

Group B Fixtures Preview:

Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens (Lafia): Nasarawa Amazons, perennial contenders, launch their title quest after narrowly missing out last season. Delta Queens, 2022/23 champions, missed the Super Six for two consecutive years and are eager to reclaim their place among Nigeria’s elite. Both sides won their home meetings 1–0 last season, hinting at a tactical battle.

Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels (Iyamho): Confluence Queens suffered a difficult campaign last season with 11 losses in 14 games but hold a favorable historical record against Abia Angels; four wins, one draw, two losses. Abia Angels, however, won the last two encounters, including a narrow 1–0 victory, and will look to continue that momentum.

Sunshine Queens vs FC Robo Queens (Akure): Newly promoted Sunshine Queens aim to avoid an immediate relegation struggle. FC Robo Queens hold a slight edge in recent head-to-head meetings, winning three of the last five encounters, though Sunshine secured a convincing 3–0 victory in their last clash.

Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies (Abiriba): Debutants Ahudiyannem Queens, coached by former Super Falcons assistant Ann Chiejine, face Wemimo Matthew’s Remo Stars Ladies, who reached last season’s Super Six. The tactical battle between the only two CAF-A licensed women’s coaches promises sharp strategy and positional discipline.

Dannaz Ladies vs Osun Babes (Lagos): The South West derby sees Dannaz Ladies clash with newly promoted Osun Babes. Historically, Osun Babes have struggled in Lagos, losing their last trip 3–1 to FC Robo Queens in 2020/21. Both teams will seek momentum, with tactical maturity and set-piece efficiency playing key roles.

With new teams, renewed rivalries, tactical upgrades, and several coaches with national team pedigree, the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership promises drama and surprises from day one. From heavyweight clashes to debutante ambitions, fans can expect a thrilling season of intense competition across both groups.

2025/2026 NWFL Season Opener: Bayelsa Queens Ready to Defend Title Against Edo Queens

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