The 2025 Nigeria Women’s Football League Premiership Super Six playoffs commenced with a thrilling display of skill, determination, and close contests at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne. These matches marked the beginning of a fierce battle for the league title and a coveted spot in the 2025 CAF Women’s Champions League. The opening day saw triumphs for Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens, and hosts Remo Stars Ladies, setting the stage for an exciting and unpredictable competition. Each team showcased their strengths and vulnerabilities, leaving fans eager to witness the unfolding drama of the remaining matches.
The first match of the day featured a captivating North Central derby between Nasarawa Amazons and Naija Ratels. Naija Ratels drew first blood with a well-executed free-kick by Rita Tsebee in the 13th minute. However, the Amazons, displaying their resilience, leveled the score just before halftime through Jenat Akekeromowei. Carrying this momentum into the second half, Josephine Mathias secured the winning goal for Nasarawa Amazons ten minutes after the restart. Despite Naija Ratels’ spirited attempts to equalize, the Amazons held firm, showcasing their experience and composure to claim a valuable three points.
The second fixture showcased another derby, this time between South-South rivals Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels. Bayelsa Queens, maintaining their unbeaten run from the regular season, continued their impressive form. Alaba Olabiyi, celebrating her birthday, gifted her team the lead with a goal in the 34th minute. Rivers Angels had a golden opportunity to equalize with a penalty in the 49th minute, but Omini Monle’s exceptional save denied Ifeoma Ikenokwalu, preserving Bayelsa’s lead. Despite Rivers Angels’ persistent efforts, Bayelsa Queens’ defense proved impenetrable, securing a hard-fought victory.
The final match of the day witnessed history in the making as hosts Remo Stars Ladies made their Super Six debut against Edo Queens. In a tightly contested match with few clear-cut chances, a late stroke of luck decided the outcome. With just two minutes remaining, a corner kick created chaos in the Edo Queens’ box, and an unfortunate defensive error by Morufa Ademola allowed Olasubomi Ogundele to score the winning goal for Remo Stars Ladies. This victory marked a triumphant return for coach Wemimo Matthew, who rejoined the team from international duty to lead them against her former club.
The opening day of the Super Six playoffs established Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens, and Remo Stars Ladies as early frontrunners, each securing three crucial points. However, the tournament is far from over, and the path to the championship remains challenging and unpredictable. The subsequent matches promise further excitement and intense competition as each team strives to secure their place at the top.
Matchday two promises another round of thrilling encounters, beginning with a highly anticipated clash between Nasarawa Amazons and Bayelsa Queens, a rematch of their Federation Cup round of 16 encounter. This match will undoubtedly test the strength and tactical prowess of both sides. Following this, Remo Stars Ladies will face Naija Ratels in a battle of youthful ambition, with both teams eager to build upon their opening day victories. Finally, Rivers Angels and Edo Queens will square off in what is expected to be a tactical and fiercely contested match, as both teams seek to rebound from their opening day losses.
The Super Six playoffs have begun with a bang, setting the scene for a compelling competition that will showcase the best of Nigerian women’s football. The remaining matches promise to deliver more drama, excitement, and stunning displays of athleticism, as the teams continue their fight for the league title and a spot in the CAF Women’s Champions League. The journey to determine the ultimate champion is well underway, and fans can anticipate a thrilling conclusion to this fiercely competitive tournament.
