The stage is set for an exhilarating conclusion to the 2024 NWFL Championship, with two crucial games determining which teams will secure promotion to the NWFL Premiership this Sunday in Calabar.
The final showdown will feature four contenders: Ibom Angels, Osun Babes, Pelican Stars, and Honey Badgers, all vying for two coveted spots in the top flight.
Immediate Return for Relegated Sides
Osun Babes and Ibom Angels, both recently relegated from the top flight, will seek to bounce back with victories in the promotion playoffs. Osun Babes dominated Group B1, winning all four of their matches, while Ibom Angels impressed with three wins in Group A2.
Osun Babes demonstrated their offensive prowess with 17 goals scored and just one conceded, sealing their playoff spot after a decisive 1-1 draw against Gallant Queens. The last encounter between these two sides saw Osun Babes narrowly defeat Ibom Angels 1-0 in Uyo during the 2021/2022 league season.
Pelican Stars and Honey Badgers Eye Promotion
The second playoff match will see hosts Pelican Stars take on Honey Badgers. This marks Honey Badgers’ closest attempt at promotion, having previously finished fourth in their respective groups in the 2022 and 2024 NWFL Championships.
Pelican Stars impressed in Group A1 with three wins and a draw, although a 2-2 result against Heroes Queens raised questions about their recent form. Honey Badgers, meanwhile, secured two wins out of three games in Group B2 but fell short with a 1-0 loss to Kwara Ladies, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
The Road to the Premiership
The winners of these two pivotal playoff games will join the NWFL Premiership, featuring teams like Edo Queens, FC Robo Queens, Bayelsa Queens, Rivers Angels, Confluence Queens, Nasarawa Amazons, Adamawa Queens, Abia Angels, Delta Queens, Naija Ratels, Heartland Queens, Ekiti Queens, Remo Star Ladies, and Dannaz Ladies.
As the countdown to kickoff begins, fans anticipates an action-packed finale with promotion to the NWFL Premiership on the line.