NWFL Kicks Off, as Naija Ratels Signal Intent in Gritty Abuja Opener

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The 2025/2026 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) Premiership season kicked off on Wednesday with late goals, big fights and tough draws across centres nationwide.

In Abuja, Naija Ratels the capital’s only top-flight football team, opened their campaign with a determined goalless draw against Ibom Angels at the Bwari Stadium.

As the FCT’s sole representative in any elite league, expectations were high.

The youthful Ratels side pressed early, showed energy and discipline, but were undone by missed chances and the composure of a well-organised Ibom Angels team.

Head coach Sabo Okala described the display as “very, very encouraging,” noting that his young squad showed courage and promise.

“You can expect lapses with a young team, but the positives give me hope,

If Ibom Angels can get a draw here, we can go away and get a win. We’re recovering these points in Rivers.”  he said

Despite dropping points at home, the Ratels camp remains upbeat ahead of their next clash against Rivers Angels.

Visiting coach Edwin Okon, who lamented a difficult trip marked by road accidents, felt his side should have earned more.

“It is grace that brought us here safely. But it’s two points dropped,” he said. “We just want to stabilise this season, and if the chance to climb comes, we’ll take it.”

Matchday One Highlights Across the NWFL:

Heartland Queens 2–1 Ekiti Queens (Owerri): Heartland came from behind with goals from Chizoba Johnson and Emmanuella James.

Confluence Queens 2–2 Abia Angels (Iyamho): Four-goal thriller ends level.

Bayelsa Queens 3–2 Edo Queens (Yenagoa): Blessing Illvieda sealed it at 90’ after Edo twice took the lead.

Sunshine Queens 0–1 FC Robo Queens (Akure): Marvellous Oladuni scored the lone goal.

Ahudiyannem Queens 0–0 Remo Stars Ladies (Umuahia): Tight, defensive contest.

Dannaz Ladies 3–2 Osun Babes (Lagos): Dannaz fought back and held on despite late pressure.

With nineteen teams in this expanded NWFL Premiership, the opening fixtures show a league brimming with competition and rising talent.

For Abuja fans, Naija Ratels’ opening-day performance was more than a draw,it was a statement of intent.

As Matchday Two approaches, all eyes turn to their away showdown with Rivers Angels—one of Nigeria’s most decorated sides.

The NWFL is back. The battles have begun. And Naija Ratels are ready for the fight