As the 2024/25 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership enters its penultimate round on Wednesday, April 23, the battle for Super Six Playoff spots intensifies, with just three slots left to fill—two from Group A and one from Group B.
Matchday 13 promises thrilling fixtures, none bigger than the iconic South-South derby between Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels. Elsewhere, playoff dreams and relegation fears hang in the balance as teams jostle for vital points.
Here’s a comprehensive preview of this midweek’s action:
Group A
Nasarawa Amazons vs Edo Queens – Unbeaten Runs on the Line in Lafia
In Lafia, Nasarawa Amazons look to extend their unbeaten home record as they welcome defending champions Edo Queens. Christopher Danjuma’s side has been formidable at home, winning all six fixtures, including the notable scalp of Remo Stars Ladies.
Edo Queens remain unbeaten across the season and have collected five wins from six away games. Moses Aduku’s team edged their last meeting 2-0 in Benin City and have the upper hand historically, with five wins in their last eight head-to-heads.
A win for either side could be decisive in shaping the final playoff picture.
Confluence Queens vs Ekiti Queens – Bottom escape battle in Ayingba
Confluence Queens are fighting to leave the bottom and face an Ekiti Queens side playing for pride despite both are guaranteed top-flight survival.
Despite a poor start, Sabo Okala’s team has picked up four points in their last five matches. Meanwhile, Ekiti Queens, who won the reverse fixture 2-0, aim to end the season on a high after missing out on the playoffs.
Dannaz Ladies vs Heartland Queens – Survival Battle in Lagos
Two struggling sides meet in Lagos as Dannaz Ladies host Heartland Queens in a crucial relegation six-pointer.
Dannaz have endured a tough season, managing just one win and four draws. Their home form has faltered with three consecutive losses. Heartland Queens, despite a promising campaign last year, have failed to replicate that form—especially on the road, where they’ve suffered six straight defeats.
A win for either team could prove pivotal in the survival battle.
Abia Angels vs Remo Stars Ladies – Playoff Spot at Stake
Fourth-placed Abia Angels host high-flying Remo Stars Ladies in what could be a make-or-break tie.
Adanna Nwaneri’s team have been strong at home, winning five of six. Remo Stars, meanwhile, need just a point to clinch their maiden playoff berth. Coached by Wemimo Mathew, they’ve been one of the standout teams this season, backed by a solid away record.
Group B
Bayelsa Queens vs Rivers Angels – South-South Derby Decider in Yenagoa
Arguably the headline fixture of the weekend, Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels clash in Yenagoa to determine who tops Group B heading into the playoffs.
Both sides have already qualified, but bragging rights and group leadership are on the line. The hosts, led by Ogbonda Whyte, have a 100% home record. Tosan Blackson’s Rivers Angels have also impressed on the road, winning four of six away matches.
The reverse fixture ended 1-1 in Port Harcourt. Historically, Bayelsa have the edge with five wins in their last 12 meetings.
Benue Queens vs Adamawa Queens – Relegation Six-Pointer
Benue Queens finally tasted victory last week and must now build on that momentum as they face Adamawa Queens, who sit just above them.
With only one win at home all season, Benue’s survival hopes hinge on this clash. Adamawa, on the other hand, need just a point to confirm their safety—but they’ve lost all six away games this season.
Adamawa won the reverse fixture 2-0.
Delta Queens vs Naija Ratels – Last Chance for Delta Queens
Former champions Delta Queens are in a must-win situation against Naija Ratels to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Currently fifth, they need a win and results elsewhere to go their way. The Pearls have been solid at home, winning four of six. Naija Ratels, aiming for a second playoff appearance, are in control of their destiny and have avoided defeat in their last three head-to-heads.
The reverse tie ended in a 1-1 draw.
Ibom Angels vs FC Robo Queens – Playoff Push in Uyo
Ibom Angels, with only pride left to play for, host FC Robo Queens who need a win to remain in playoff contention ahead of a final-day showdown against Delta Queens.
Edwin Okon’s side has a decent home record, while the Lagos-based FC Robo have shown mixed away form with just two wins on the road.
A win here would give the Lagos Landladies a major boost ahead of their all-important final game.
What’s at Stake
- Playoffs: Three spots remain — two in Group A, one in Group B.
- Bragging Rights: Bayelsa Queens vs Rivers Angels offers a tantalizing South-South showdown with group supremacy at stake.
All eyes are on Matchday 13 as the NWFL Premiership enters its decisive phase.