The closing chapter of the year 2023 for the Nigeria Women Football League Premiership brought both surprises and historic moments, reshaping the league’s narrative with notable firsts in the Matchday Six encounters on Wednesday and Thursday this week.
Confluence Queens, previously undefeated, faced their inaugural defeat in a tightly contested North Central derby at Lafia City Stadium. Nasarawa Amazons secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory in Lafia, marking a significant milestone and adding an unexpected twist to Confluence’s dominant season.
Equally noteworthy was the South South derby at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, where Bayelsa Queens, a formidable force at the start of the campaign, experienced their first defeat. Robo Queens emerged triumphant with a thrilling 2-1 victory, showcasing the unpredictable nature of women’s football and challenging the league’s top contenders.
On a positive note, Matchday Six also left fans on the edge of their seats, witnessing historic victories for teams seeking redemption as Royal Queens celebrated their inaugural win of the season in Sapele, defeating Adamawa Queens 1-0. In Akure, Sunshine Queens secured their first win of the season in a South West derby against Remo Stars Ladies.
The North Central derby at Lafia City Stadium saw Nasarawa Amazons securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Confluence Queens. Ojiyovwi Kesiena’s 17th-minute strike proved to be the deciding goal in a closely contested match, adding another chapter to the longstanding rivalry between the two teams.
At the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Edo Queens claimed the bragging rights in the South South derby over Delta Queens with a 1-0 win in Benin City. Esther Moses found the back of the net in the 59th minute, sealing the victory and contributing to an impressive season for Edo Queens.
In Owerri, Heartland Queens demonstrated resilience, clinching a 2-1 victory over Dannaz Ladies. Chimebere Opara’s 46th minute strike plus Chinwendu Orji’s last gasp finish helped the hosts subdue the visitors despite Ogunfuwa Omotoke’s 76th minute effort.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers Angels dominated with a 2-0 victory over Ekiti Queens as Chiamaka Okwuchuku and Olamide Adugbe were on target, securing an emphatic end to their passing year 2023.
The South South derby in Sapele witnessed Royal Queens celebrating their first win of the season, defeating Adamawa Queens 1-0. Raheem Aishat’s goal in the 18th minute secured the historic victory for the Warri-based side.
In the South West derby, Sunshine Queens earned their first win of the season with a 2-1 triumph over Remo Stars Ladies at the Akure Township Stadium.
Akwubo Obianuju and Chinaza Soroibe scored crucial goals for Sunshine Queens, while Isigbo Blessing pulled one back for Remo Stars Ladies.
The Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos witnessed a thrilling match as Robo Queens secured a 2-1 victory over Bayelsa Queens at Onikan.
Second half strikes from Esther Ajakaye and Folashade Ijamilusi in the 50th and 59th minutes respectively completed the comeback win for Robo Queens, despite Rose Ekong early 22nd minute effort for Bayelsa Queens.
Closing off Matchday Six on Thursday, December 21, Abia Angels secured a 1-0 win against Naija Ratels at the Enyimba International Stadium, with Chiamaka Ojialor finding the net in the 40th minute.
As the 2023/2024 season bids farewell to year 2023, these enthralling matches encapsulate the essence of Women’s Football Rising in Nigeria, promising an even more exciting journey in the upcoming year 2024.