The final day of the 2025 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) regular season was nothing short of dramatic, with emotions running high and a twist that left fans stunned.
The playoff picture wasn’t settled until the very last whistle, leaving some teams celebrating, while others faced heartbreaking disappointment.
Naija Ratels, in a thrilling finish, secured the final playoff spot after a hard-fought goalless draw against the unbeaten Bayelsa Queens at the Bwari City Stadium in Abuja.
The result not only earned them a place in the prestigious NWFL Super Six, but it also ensured their second-ever appearance in the playoffs since their rise to the top-flight league.
Coach Samson Keshi couldn’t contain his joy, praising his squad for their resilience against one of the toughest teams in the league.
“I give my girls a hundred percent praise because Bayelsa Queens are a very good side. For my girls to come out today with a point that surpasses any other team to qualify for the Super Six from my zone is an achievement. I am incredibly proud of them,” Keshi said after the match.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers Angels were involved in a rollercoaster match against Benue Queens, who had already been relegated. Despite trailing 2-1 at one point, the Jewel of Rivers mounted a stunning late comeback to win 4-2.
The win was crucial in securing their second-place finish in Group B, keeping them in the race for the NWFL Super Six.
Despite a slow start, Rivers Angels showed their class, and their victory meant the top two spots in Group B were decided, with Bayelsa Queens comfortably finishing first.
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Meanwhile, in Group A, Remo Stars Ladies made a statement with a crushing 5-0 win over Dannaz Ladies in their final match. The result pushed them up to second place in Group A, leapfrogging Nasarawa Amazons, who suffered a 2-1 defeat to Heartland Queens in Owerri.
The attacking duo of Bolaji Olamide, who scored twice, and Kafayat Bashiru, who also bagged a brace, were pivotal in securing the win and booking their place in the Super Six. Remo Stars will now look to carry this momentum into the playoffs.
Remo Stars Ladies’ Bolaji Olamide (right) is the leading goal scorer of NWFL with 14 goals in 14 games. Photo Credit: X
For Nasarawa Amazons, it was a bitter end to the regular season. Despite a strong start, their 2-1 loss to Heartland Queens saw them drop to third place in Group A, just behind Remo Stars.
Their fate was sealed as they had already qualified for the Super Six, but the result left them with a sense of what could have been.
At the top of Group A, Edo Queens secured their place in the Super Six with a 2-0 victory over Confluence Queens.
Goals from Precious Vincent and Emem Essien helped Edo Queens finish the regular season with an impressive 35 points, securing the top spot in Group A. Confluence Queens, hoNaija Ratels secured the last NWFL Super Six playoff spot after a tense final matchday that saw dramatic results and shifting fortunes across the league.wever, ended their season in disappointing fashion, finishing last in the group with only seven points.
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Benue Queens and Confluence Queens, who finished at the bottom of their respective groups, are expected to drop to the lower league, the NWFL Championship.
However, unconfirmed reports have suggested that the league may not see relegation this season, with discussions ongoing to increase the number of teams in the top-flight league to enhance competitiveness.
As the dust settles on the regular season, all eyes are now on the upcoming Super Six showdown in Ikenne, Ogun State. The top three teams from each group will compete for the ultimate prize.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from May 8 to 17 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
OFFICIAL SCHEDULE FOR THE NWFL SUPER SIX
Thursday, May 8: Arrival of teams
Friday, May 9: Draw and pre-match meeting
Saturday, May 10: Matchday 1
Sunday, May 11: Matchday 2
Monday, May 12: Rest day
Tuesday, May 13: Matchday 3
Wednesday, May 14: Rest day
Thursday, May 15: Matchday 4
Friday, May 16: Rest day & media day
Sunday, May 17: Matchday 5 (Final day) & Trophy presentation
