As the 2024 NWFL Championship approaches Matchday 5, teams are entering a pivotal stage in the tournament. The September 6 fixtures promise thrilling encounters across all groups, with several clubs aiming to maintain their momentum while others seek redemption after tough losses. The stakes are high, as the path to the knockout stages becomes clearer with each passing matchday.
After an exciting Matchday 4, which saw dominant victories from the likes of Osun Babes and Gallant Queens, as well as narrow but crucial wins for Pelican Stars and Delta Babes, Matchday 5 will be crucial for teams in contention for top spots. The UJ Esuene Stadium and Saint Patrick College Field are set to host some potentially defining games as the competition heats up.
Group A1
Pelican Stars vs Heroes Queens – UJ Esuene Stadium, 9am
Pelican Stars, buoyed by their 2-1 victory over First Mahi Babes, will be looking to build on that momentum as they take on Heroes Queens. Heroes Queens will be desperate to get their campaign back on track, but they face a stern test against a Pelican side that is finding form at the right time.
Imo Striker Queens vs First Mahi Babes – Saint Patrick College, 9am
Imo Striker Queens come into this fixture full of confidence after a 2-0 win over Castmog Ladies. They will look to continue their good form against First Mahi Babes, who need to bounce back after suffering a narrow defeat. This promises to be a competitive clash, with both sides eager for the points.
Group A2
Kaduna Queens vs Wazbak International – Saint Patrick College, 11am
Both teams come into this fixture with contrasting fortunes. Kaduna Queens, having endured a difficult campaign, are destined for the relegation playoff after their heavy 7-0 defeat to Osun Babes.
For Wazbak International, a win in this match will cement their stay in the Championship, allowing them to avoid the relegation playoff. While Kaduna Queens will play for pride, Wazbak will be motivated to secure a crucial victory and extend their stay in the competition.
Gallant Queens vs Osun Babes – UJ Esuene Stadium, 11 am
This match is a top-of-the-table clash for supremacy, as both Gallant Queens and Osun Babes have enjoyed perfect starts to the campaign, winning all three of their matches. The stakes are high, with the winner set to claim the group’s playoff spot.
Gallant Queens come off a commanding 5-0 win over Moje Queens, while Osun Babes delivered an even more impressive 7-0 victory against Kaduna Queens. With both teams in blistering form, this battle for dominance promises to be one of the most exciting fixtures of Matchday 5.
Group B1
Chosen Generation vs Ibom Angels – UJ Esuene Stadium, 2 pm
Chosen Generation are in desperate need of a win to confirm their survival and avoid the relegation playoffs. After a 1-1 draw with Unification FC, the pressure is mounting for them to secure three points. Meanwhile, Ibom Angels have already sealed their passage to the playoffs and will enter the match with less pressure but will still aim to maintain their winning form as they look ahead to the knockout stages.
Papa Soccer Angels vs Unification FC – Saint Patrick Stadium, 2pm
Both Papa Soccer Angels and Unification FC are determined to secure a win that would keep them in the Championship. With survival on the line, the two sides will leave everything on the field as they look to avoid slipping into the relegation zone.
After Papa Soccer’s narrow 2-1 loss to Delta Babes and Unification’s 1-1 draw with Chosen Generation, both teams know that a win here is crucial for their hopes of remaining in the competition.