Nasarawa Amazons delivered the clearest indication yet that they are serious contenders for the 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership title after producing a spirited comeback to defeat defending champions Bayelsa Queens 2-1 on Matchday Two of the Super Six playoffs in Port Harcourt.
In a contest that tested character as much as quality, the Solid Miners showed the mentality of potential champions by overturning a second-half deficit and snatching victory in dramatic fashion at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.
The victory extended Nasarawa Amazons' perfect start to the Super Six campaign, making it two wins from two matches and placing them firmly among the early favourites in the race for the crown.
For much of the afternoon, however, Bayelsa Queens appeared poised to secure their first win of the playoffs.
The opening half was evenly contested, with both teams displaying tactical discipline and defensive organisation. Chances were at a premium as neither side was willing to take unnecessary risks in a fixture carrying enormous significance for the title race.
While Bayelsa Queens enjoyed more control in possession, Nasarawa Amazons remained dangerous on transitions, ensuring the first half ended without a breakthrough.
The deadlock was finally broken seven minutes after the restart when Bayelsa Queens made their superiority from set-pieces count. Chiamaka Ezekwugo rose above the defence to head home from a corner kick, giving the defending champions a valuable 1-0 advantage.
At that stage, Bayelsa Queens looked well positioned to see out the game and revive their title challenge following their opening-day draw.
Nasarawa Amazons, however, refused to be discouraged.
The Lafia-based side gradually increased the pressure and were rewarded ten minutes from time when Moses Farkikyen found the equaliser. The goal shifted the momentum entirely and injected fresh belief into the Amazons' ranks.
With both teams searching for a winner, the match entered its decisive phase.
Just when a draw appeared inevitable, Nasarawa Amazons captain Ayatsea Hembafan produced the defining moment of the encounter. Deep into stoppage time, the influential skipper found the winning goal to complete a remarkable turnaround and spark jubilant celebrations among players and officials.
Beyond the three points, the nature of the victory could prove significant as the championship playoffs progress.
Champions are often defined by their ability to overcome adversity, and Nasarawa Amazons demonstrated exactly that against one of the most experienced teams in the competition. Their refusal to surrender after falling behind showcased a resilience that could become a crucial factor in the title race.
For Bayelsa Queens, the defeat represents a major setback. Having led for almost half an hour, the defending champions will be disappointed to leave empty-handed and must quickly regroup if they are to retain their crown.
As the Super Six gathers momentum in Port Harcourt, Nasarawa Amazons have sent a powerful warning to their rivals. With maximum points from their opening two matches and growing confidence within the squad, they are emerging as one of the teams to beat in the quest for NWFL Premiership glory.
The dramatic 2-1 turnaround highlights the tactical resilience that now positions the Lafia-based side at the forefront of the championship discussion. By snatching maximum points deep into stoppage time, the squad demonstrated the mental fortitude required to dethrone the reigning titleholders. As the tournament continues to unfold in Port Harcourt, this pivotal Matchday Two triumph firmly establishes the Solid Miners as the team to beat.
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