The 2024/25 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership Super Six continues on Monday with a first-ever top-flight meeting between Remo Stars Ladies and Naija Ratels FC, two ambitious sides with contrasting starts to their playoff campaigns.
The clash, taking place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, promises high stakes, tactical battles, and a shot at redemption for one of the contenders.
First-Ever Topflight Meeting with Playoff Implications
This match marks the first time in NWFL top-flight history that Remo Stars Ladies and Naija Ratels will face off in league action.
However, both teams are already familiar with each other, having played out a dramatic 2-2 draw in the 2024 President Federation Cup semi-final, with Naija Ratels edging the tie 7-6 on penalties to reach the final.
That history sets the stage for what is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter in the Super Six—where every result significantly shapes the title race.
Team Form and Context
Remo Stars Ladies
The Ikenne-based side got their debut Super Six campaign off to a dream start with a narrow but crucial 1-0 win over defending champions Edo Queens. The win has sparked belief that they could go all the way in their first top-six appearance—especially with home support and confidence on their side.
Led by Coach Wemimo Mathew, who recently returned from a CAF Women’s Instructors Development Workshop in Addis Ababa, Remo Stars Ladies will be hoping to use both technical acumen and momentum to notch another victory.
One of their biggest assets is Bolaji Olamide, the league’s current top scorer, whose goal-scoring form could again prove decisive.
Naija Ratels FC
Naija Ratels, based in Abuja, had a more disappointing start, losing 2-1 to Nasarawa Amazons despite initially taking the lead.
The defeat was a setback to their title ambitions, but they remain a dangerous side capable of bouncing back.
Coach Samson Keshi is expected to ring some tactical changes, relying on Rita Tsebee for set-piece threats and Sofiat Bankole to deliver in front of goal.
Their previous Cup victory over Remo Stars gives them a psychological edge, but they’ll need more than history to overcome a motivated host team.
Last Meeting Recap
2024 President Federation Cup Semi-final
- Naija Ratels 2-2 Remo Stars Ladies (Naija Ratels won 7-6 on penalties)
A thrilling encounter saw both teams exchange goals and go the distance, with Naija Ratels eventually winning in a penalty shootout to book a place in the final.
Key Players to Watch
- Remo Stars Ladies:
- Bolaji Olamide – The league’s top scorer brings pace, positioning, and lethal finishing.
- Charlotte Adjei (GK) – A calm and commanding presence between the posts.
- Naija Ratels FC:
- Sofiat Bankole – A consistent goal threat, capable of turning the tide with her movement.
- Rita Tsebee – Dangerous from dead-ball situations and a key creative outlet.
What’s at Stake
- For Remo Stars Ladies:
A win will see them move one step closer to an improbable title triumph in their maiden Super Six appearance, especially playing in front of home supporters. - For Naija Ratels:
Three points are vital to keep their playoff hopes alive after the opening-day loss. Another defeat could severely dent their chances of a top finish.
Final Word
With both teams hungry for success and recent history adding spice to the fixture, expect a closely fought battle filled with tactical ingenuity, individual brilliance, and plenty of playoff drama.