As the Matchday Six of the 2023/2024 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership approach on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, across eight centers, anticipation is high for the three regional derbies highlighting this pivotal last matchday of the year 2023.
One of the standout features of Matchday Six is the triple-header of regional derbies, highlighting the depth of competition across the North Central, South West, and South-South regions.
The North Central clash between unbeaten Confluence Queens and Nasarawa Amazons, the South West derby featuring Sunshine Queens and Remo Stars Ladies, and the South South showdown between Edo Queens and Delta Queens are poised to deliver edge-of-the-seat excitement.
The NWFL Premiership Matchday Six promises a crescendo of football drama, setting the stage for memorable moments and affirming the league’s top three positions as the powerhouses and emerging giantskillers in nation’s domestic women’s game.
North Central Clash: Nasarawa Amazons vs Confluence Queens
In Lafia, the North Central showdown unfolds as Confluence Queens, one of the league’s two unbeaten teams, faces Nasarawa Amazons at the Lafia Township Stadium. Sabo Okala’s side aims for back-to-back Super Six qualifications, while Christopher Danjuma’s squad seeks redemption after a recent loss to Adamawa Queens.
Fairytale Clash: Heartland Queens vs Dannaz Ladies
Heartland Queens and Dannaz Ladies, both enjoying commendable seasons, clash for the first time in the country’s elite division in Owerri. Heartland’s fairy tale includes three wins, two draws, and a loss, while Dannaz Ladies hold their ground at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, with two wins, two losses, and a draw.
Struggle Continues: Royal Queens vs Adamawa Queens
In Sapele, Royal Queens aim for their first win of the season against a resurgent Adamawa Queens, who seek to build on recent victories and distance themselves from early relegation concerns.
With four losses and a draw, Royal Queens faces early relegation troubles and are in desperate need of redemption at the Sapele Stadium, while Adamawa Queens aims to put behind their rough start to the season.
South West Derby: Sunshine Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies
In a South West derby, Sunshine Queens and Remo Stars Ladies face off at the Akure Township Stadium in Akure. Sunshine Queens, at the bottom of the log, seeks redemption after four consecutive losses, while Remo Stars Ladies secured their first topflight win last week, aimed to continue their positive run under former coach Wemimo Matthew.
Super Six Aspirations: Rivers Angels vs Ekiti Queens
Rivers Angels target Super Six qualification at Adokiye Stadium as they welcome Ekiti Queens, who earned a first ever NWFL Premiership win with a recent 1-0 victory over neighbours Sunshine Queens. This encounter in Port Harcourt marks the first-ever top-flight meeting between the two sides.
South South Showdown: Edo Queens vs Delta Queens
The South South derby sees Edo Queens and Delta Queens striving to return to winning ways at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. With similar fortunes in recent matches, this clash promises intensity and competition. Both teams aim to bounce back after recent setbacks. The last two meetings between these teams ended in goalless draws, highlighting the intensity of their clashes.
Top-Flight Rivalry: FC Robo Queens vs Bayelsa Queens
In a game to watch, FC Robo Queens hosts former league winners Bayelsa Queens at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. Domo Okara’s unbeaten side faces a tough challenge against Emmanuel Osahon’s resilient Bayelsa Queens, recalling their past encounters, including a close 1-1 draw last week and a memorable meeting during the 2023 Super Six.
New Encounter: Abia Angels vs Naija Ratels
At Enyimba International Stadium, Abia Angels and Naija Ratels meet for the first time in the country’s topflight in Aba on Thursday.
Abia Angels, initially on a winning streak, faces a hurdle with two losses and a draw in their last three games. Naija Ratels, in contrast, looks to maintain their unbeaten momentum.
This Matchday Six lineup guarantees football enthusiasts a thrilling display of skill, determination, and regional pride.