NWFL Super 6: Rivers Angels seek defensive improvement as title chase gathers pace

Posted : 08 June 2026

Rivers Angels will look to strengthen their grip on the 2025/2026 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership Super Six title race when they face Abia Angels in their second fixture, with head coach Tosan Blankson demanding further improvement despite an impressive opening-day victory.

The Port Harcourt side began their campaign on a winning note after edging Group B champions FC Robo Queens 3-2 in an entertaining contest at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.

While the result underlined Rivers Angels' championship credentials, Blankson believes there is still plenty of work to do if his team is to convert home advantage into league glory.

The Rivers Angels boss admitted that conceding twice against FC Robo Queens was a concern and revealed that tightening up defensively will be a major priority ahead of the clash with Abia Angels.

"We are going to work on our defensive line," Blankson said after the victory.

"We do not want to concede goals like this again."

The coach believes a more disciplined defensive performance could provide the platform for even greater attacking success in the matches ahead.

Rivers Angels showed plenty of attacking quality against FC Robo Queens, scoring three times and creating several additional opportunities, but Blankson was left frustrated by his side's inability to make the most of their chances.

According to the coach, his attackers repeatedly fell into the offside trap laid by the opposition, a problem he attributed to eagerness rather than tactical shortcomings.

He explained that midfield runners and overlapping defenders were expected to exploit the spaces behind the defensive line, but the forwards often moved too early in search of goals.

Blankson will be hoping his players display better attacking discipline against Abia Angels as Rivers Angels pursue a second consecutive victory.

One of the major positives from the opening game was the performance of striker Abasiofon Uwah, who continued her impressive scoring form with another goal.

The forward, signed from Ebonyi Angels, has emerged as one of the league's most dangerous attackers and remains firmly in contention for the Golden Boot award.

Blankson expressed satisfaction with the striker's development, praising her response to the coaching staff's efforts since arriving at the club.

The Rivers Angels coach also took encouragement from the significance of defeating FC Robo Queens, who entered the Super Six as Group B champions and one of the competition's strongest contenders.

For Blankson, overcoming such a respected opponent has reinforced belief within the squad that they can challenge any team in the tournament.

With confidence high and home support firmly behind them, Rivers Angels know another victory could place them in a commanding position in the race for the NWFL Premiership crown.

However, Blankson insists improvements in concentration, defensive organisation, and attacking execution will be necessary if the Jewel of Rivers are to maintain their momentum and stay on course for championship success.

All eyes will now be on Port Harcourt as Rivers Angels attempt to back up their opening statement victory with another crucial result against Abia Angels.

Securing a consecutive win at home will be vital for the Port Harcourt side to solidify their lead in the tournament standings. Overcoming their defensive lapses remains the primary focus to handle the unpredictable threats posed by their upcoming opponents. With tactical adjustments underway and key players in peak scoring form, the team is fully prepared to elevate its standard of performance.

Here are the betting predictions based on the Rivers Angels article:

Betting Predictions

Rivers Angels vs Abia Angels:

Over 2.5 Goals: Rivers Angels showed incredible attacking flare in their opening match, scoring three goals, but they also looked vulnerable by conceding twice. With striker Abasiofon Uwah in peak scoring form and the team playing at home, another high-scoring, entertaining affair is highly likely.
Rivers Angels Win: Coming off an impressive victory against Group B champions FC Robo Queens, confidence is sky-high for the Port Harcourt side. Backed by home support at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium and possessing superior squad depth, they are strong favorites to secure a second consecutive win.
Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Head coach Tosan Blankson openly admitted concerns about his backline after conceding two goals in the opening fixture. While tactical adjustments are underway to fix these defensive lapses, Abia Angels will look to exploit these lingering gaps, making BTTS an attractive option.

These Super Six fixtures will test Rivers Angels' ability to pair their dangerous attack with better defensive execution as they chase the NWFL Premiership crown. Check here for betting odds.

NWFL Super 6: Rivers Angels seek defensive improvement as title chase gathers pace

Betting Predictions

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