Benue Queens Claim First NWFL Win as Super Six Race Heats Up

Matchday 12 of the 2024/25 NWFL Premiership season delivered drama and historic milestones as newcomers Benue Queens finally claimed their maiden top flight victory, defeating Ibom Angels 1-0 in Lafia. Joy Ikyagh’s second half strike ended the team’s 11-game winless run and marked a special moment for Coach Liadi Bashiru’s side.

Meanwhile, Naija Ratels shook up the playoff picture with a crucial 1-0 home win over FC Robo Queens, thanks to Sofiat Bankole’s decisive effort. The result leaves both sides’ Super Six qualification hopes hanging in the balance with two matchdays remaining.

In Benin City, champions Edo Queens extended their unbeaten record with a commanding 3-1 win over Dannaz Ladies, propelled by a brace from Anjor Mary and a goal from Chioma Moses. Bayelsa Queens also remained unbeaten after a 1-1 draw away to Adamawa Queens.

Rivers Angels impressed with a thumping 3-0 victory over Delta Queens in Port Harcourt, led by a second hat-trick of the season from Mary Moses. Abia Angels grabbed the only away win of the round with a 1-0 triumph over Confluence Queens, while Remo Stars Ladies had to settle for a 1-1 draw with Heartland Queens.

Elsewhere, Ekiti Queens and Nasarawa Amazons played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in Ibadan, with both sides fighting to stay in the playoff race.

With Edo Queens, Bayelsa Queens, and Rivers Angels already through to the Super Six, the final two matchdays promise intense battles among Remo Stars, Nasarawa Amazons, FC Robo Queens, Naija Ratels, and Abia Angels for the remaining spots.

Editorial

This was the matchday that proved the NWFL Premiership isn’t just thriving—it’s pulsating with life. From historic wins to high-stakes derbies, Week 12 delivered all the drama that defines a league on the rise.

Benue Queens’ victory is more than just three points—it’s validation. Validation for a young team finding its footing, for players like Joy Ikyagh writing their name into club folklore, and for Coach Liadi Bashiru’s unwavering belief in his side. That first win is always the hardest, but now they know it’s possible.

At the top end of the table, the Super Six race is heating up spectacularly. Naija Ratels’ narrow win over FC Robo might go down as the moment the tide shifted. It didn’t just hand them three points—it shook the standings and lit a fire under the final stretch of the season.

This matchday reminded us that no team can rest on reputation. Big names are being humbled. Underdogs are finding their voices. And players like Mary Moses, Anjor Mary, and Sofiat Bankole are stepping up when it matters most.

With only two matchdays left, every goal counts. Every tackle, every pass, every win could make the difference between fighting for a title and watching from the sidelines.

Did You Know?

1. Benue Queens’ 1-0 win was their first-ever in the NWFL Premiership after 11 consecutive games without a victory.
2. Mary Moses of Rivers Angels has now recorded two hat-tricks this season more than any other player.
3. Abia Angels’ win over Confluence Queens was their second away victory this season, both with clean sheets.
4. Edo Queens remain the only side unbeaten for the second consecutive NWFL regular season.
5. The 2024/25 NWFL Super Six will be contested by the top three teams from each group after 14 matchdays.