The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) returns with a gripping midweek schedule as Matchday 12 unfolds across key centres, including Uyo, Port Harcourt, Ikenne, Ile Ogbo, Lafia, and Lagos. With the Super Six race nearing its defining moment and relegation fears creeping in for struggling sides, every fixture now carries weight and consequence.
The stakes have never been higher, from teams fighting for pride and survival to title contenders establishing dominance.
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Group A Fixtures
Ibom Angels vs Adamawa Queens
In Uyo, Ibom Angels return to familiar territory with their fans back in the stands after serving a closed-door sanction. Their clash against Adamawa Queens presents more than just three points. It is a chance for redemption.
Both sides sit outside the Super Six conversation, with Adamawa Queens on 16 points in fourth place and Ibom Angels trailing with 11 points in fifth. However, pride and final standings remain on the line.
The reverse fixture saw Ifeoma Damian strike in the 16th minute to hand Adamawa Queens victory in Makwada. Now, Ibom Angels will be eager to respond on home soil.
Match Officials
Referee Ibrahim Ogunleke
Assistant Referees Christopher Kingsley and Oluka Samuel
Fourth Official Etim Blessed Emmanuel
Edo Queens vs Ekiti Queens
At the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, this fixture carries lingering tension. The fallout from their first meeting resulted in the banishment of Ekiti Queens to Abeokuta, adding emotional layers to this encounter.
Edo Queens secured a narrow away win in the first leg through Atume Doosuur’s decisive goal and have since built momentum, climbing to second place with 24 points. Ekiti Queens, on the other hand, have struggled for consistency and sit seventh with 10 points.
This is more than a football match. It is unfinished business.
Match Officials
Referee Kalu Dominion Chisom
Assistant Referees Agbilibeazu Kodilichi and Anigbata Grace Chinonyelum
Fourth Official Emakaife Stephanie
Rivers Angels vs Pacesetters Queens
Port Harcourt hosts what appears on paper to be a straightforward contest. Rivers Angels, leaders of Group A with 24 points from nine matches, welcome a struggling Pacesetters Queens side rooted at the bottom with just five points.
The first meeting ended 2-1 in favour of the Rivers Angels, with goals from Grace Saliu and Ramotalahi Kareem. Pacesetters Queens will need something extraordinary to upset the odds.
Match Officials
Referee Oweregbulam Chinazaekpere
Assistant Referees Utuk Nkopitem Augustine and Ekpenyong Victor Uduak
Fourth Official Kemmer Eze Uloma
Bayelsa Queens vs Naija Ratels
In Yenagoa, defending champions Bayelsa Queens are wounded and dangerous. Their recent struggles, including a heavy defeat to Edo Queens, have raised questions about their title defence.
However, Naija Ratels may be arriving at the worst possible time. The first meeting ended in a resounding 5-0 victory for Bayelsa Queens, with standout performances from Kesiena Ojiyovwi, Kindness Ifeanyi, and Delight Isaac, and a brace by Alaba Olaniyi.
The big question now is not just victory but how emphatic it will be.
Match Officials
Referee Asakpi Aminoritse
Assistant Referees Onwughalu Eberechukwu and Utomi Vincent
Fourth Official Augustine Snimi Kuote
Group B Fixtures
Remo Stars Ladies vs Confluence Queens
In Ikenne, Remo Stars Ladies look to bounce back after a surprising home defeat and a draw away in Aba. Their inconsistency has raised concerns despite their strong start to the season.
Confluence Queens, though improved recently, have also struggled to maintain stability. The reverse fixture ended in a comfortable win for Remo Stars Ladies through goals from Anifowoshe Khadijat and Similoluwa Okesiji.
This fixture could go either way.
Match Officials
Referee Ashade Senami
Assistant Referees Oluwole Adeola and Akinola Abiola
Fourth Official Kabiru Oluwaseyi
Delta Queens vs FC Robo Queens
In Asaba, Delta Queens face a tough challenge against Group B leaders FC Robo Queens. The hosts are winless in four matches and still adjusting after a coaching change.
FC Robo Queens, despite a slight dip in dominance, remain top of the table and confident. Their first meeting saw second-half goals from Rodiat Yusuf and Tosin Rafiu secure victory for the Lagos Landlord.
Another win here could solidify their leadership.
Match Officials
Referee Adewale Hannah
Assistant Referees Ikhifa Vero and Isaiah Okolosi
Fourth Official Marere Paul
Osun Babes vs Abia Angels
Ile Ogbo sets the stage for a crucial relegation battle. Osun Babes are in crisis, at the bottom of the table and without a win since their coach’s controversial exit.
Abia Angels have also struggled but still hold faint hopes of a Super Six push. Their 2-0 win in the first leg, courtesy of Winner David and Blessing Okon, gives them confidence heading into this encounter.
For Osun Babes, the match is a must-win fixture.
Match Officials
Referee Obaude Kabiru
Assistant Referees Adefabi Oluwatoyin and Oladoja Olawumi Basirat
Fourth Official Taiwo Muideen
Dannaz Ladies vs Sunshine Queens
At the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, a fierce survival battle awaits. Dannaz Ladies sit in ninth place with 10 points and desperately need maximum points to escape relegation danger.
With two penalty goals from Precious Edewor and Lolade Akintunde, Sunshine Queens won the first leg.
This derby could define both teams’ seasons.
Match Officials
Referee Amusan Ayomide
Assistant Referees Somonu Balikis and Mubarak Saheed
Fourth Official Inaolaji Emmanuel Damilare
Nasarawa Amazons vs Ahudiyannem Queens
In Lafia, one of the most intriguing fixtures of the round unfolds. Nasarawa Amazons, second on the table, are pushing hard for top spot and a strong Super Six qualification.
Ahudiyannem Queens, arguably the most improved side recently, present a different challenge from the team that lost 2-0 in the first leg through goals by Ohunene Sunday and Peaceful Ikediuba.
A win for either side could significantly shape the group standings.
Match Officials
Referee Simon Awaji
Assistant Referees Tse Stephanie and Yakubu Ayatu
Fourth Official Sadiq Mairiga
NWFL Matchday Preview: Super Six Battle and Relegation Drama Take Centre Stage
Matchday 12 is more than just another round of fixtures. It is a defining chapter in the NWFL season. For some teams, it is about sealing Super Six qualification. For others, it is about survival and pride.
Across Nigeria, the battle lines are drawn. The drama is set. And the league is ready to deliver another unforgettable midweek of women’s football.
Feature Image Credit: Nasarawa Amazons Media
