After missing the entire 2024–2025 NWFL Premiership season due to a long-term injury, Dannaz Ladies captain, Solaty Fatimoh, made an inspiring return to competitive football on Matchday One. The midfielder marked her comeback in brilliant fashion, scoring the equaliser and assisting the match winner in Dannaz Ladies’ hard-earned 3–2 victory over Osun Babes in Lagos.
Speaking exclusively to Awijare News, the captain opened up about her emotional return, the team’s performance, their preparations for Nasarawa Amazons, and the support of the home fans.
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“I could not celebrate. We needed the win.”
Reflecting on her first appearance after six months on the sidelines, Fatimoh described the moment she scored as one filled with emotion and responsibility.
“My reaction after the goal was different because it was the equalising goal. I could not celebrate. I simply told my teammates, ‘Come on, we can do better.’ We needed the three points. This is our first match of the season, and this win will boost our confidence. It will determine how we approach our next game.”
Her leadership was visible throughout the match, as she guided a young Dannaz side to their first three points of the season.
“I’m getting my spark back gradually.”
Fatimoh expressed deep gratitude for being able to return to action after months of watching from the sidelines.
“I’m very excited. I’m happy for myself and for my teammates. Coming back and scoring the opening goal of our season was something to be proud of. I’m happy about my improvement. I am getting my spark back gradually. I am not fully there yet, but I’m getting somewhere.”
A challenging spell on the sidelines
The captain admitted that her injury spell was difficult, especially watching the team compete without being able to contribute on the field.
“It was frustrating. Sitting outside, watching my team play and not being able to participate was tough. But I had to support them from the sidelines. Even though I was not on the pitch, we were still together as one team. We are still Dannaz Ladies.”
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Looking ahead to Nasarawa Amazons
Dannaz Ladies play Nasarawa Amazons next, another strong side with experience and physical presence.
Fatimoh believes they are prepared.
“We are playing at home again against a very experienced Nasarawa Amazons side. We have faced them for the past two seasons, and we are ready for them again this season.”
Team targets for the season
The captain was clear about the club’s ambition this year.
“Last season was a bad season for us. We are not ready for another bad season. This time, we are all out. In both home and away matches, we want to get points.”
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Fatimoh’s return has already lifted the spirit of Dannaz Ladies, and with her leadership restored in the midfield, the Lagos-based club will look to build on their opening day victory as the NWFL Premiership campaign continues.
Image Credit: Dannaz Ladies Facebook Page
