The race for promotion in the 2025 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship reached a decisive point on Wednesday, with Castmog Ladies and Ahudiyannem Queens joining already-qualified Sunshine Queens in securing their places in next season’s NWFL Premiership.
After days of drama across two host centres in Umuahia and Abiriba, three teams have now confirmed their elevation to the top flight of Nigerian women’s football.
Castmog Ladies and Ahudiyannem Queens joined already-qualified Sunshine Queens in clinching promotion tickets on Matchday Three, showcasing grit, resilience, and quality in their campaigns. Their success leaves just one slot up for grabs, with Group B2 still in play to determine the final team destined for the elite division.
Castmog Ladies Clinch Group A1 Despite Defeat
In Umuahia, Castmog Ladies booked their Premiership ticket despite falling 1-0 to Gallant Queens. A goalkeeping mix-up led to an Omotolani Oladunjoye own goal, the only difference between the sides.
The setback did little to dent Castmog’s campaign, as they finished top of Group A1 with six points from three matches. Earlier, First Mahi Babes and Royal Queens played out a goalless draw, a result that confirmed Castmog’s promotion with a game to spare.
Ahudiyannem Queens Hold Off Wazbak to Top Group B1
In Abiriba, the much-anticipated Group B1 decider between hosts Ahudiyannem Queens and Wazbak International ended 1-1 — enough for the hosts to secure their ticket.
Kenechukwu Eze put Ahudiyannem ahead in the 38th minute, but Sofiat Hassan equalised for Wazbak to ensure a share of the spoils.
Elsewhere in the group, Pelican Stars signed off on a high with a 1-0 win over Chosen Generation Angels, courtesy of Glory Chukwu’s strike.
Group B2: Osun Babes Make Statement, Delta Babes Break Duck
In Group B2, Osun Babes produced one of the standout displays of the Championship so far, dismantling Ghetto Tigers 4-1.
Zainab Salaudeen bagged a brace, with Adeola Omowodun and Victory Odanlumen also on target. Ebube Jude grabbed the consolation for the Tigers.
Elsewhere, Delta Babes finally got off the mark after two straight defeats, edging Moje Queens 2-1. Goals from Ijeoma Damian and Mary Chisom proved decisive, despite Tawa Mustapha pulling one back.
What’s Next?
With Groups A1, A2, and B1 concluded, the focus now shifts to the decisive fixtures in Group B2, which continues on Friday and Sunday.
The group’s eventual winner will claim the final ticket to join Castmog Ladies, Sunshine Queens, and Ahudiyannem Queens in the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership.