2025/26 NWFL Premiership Season Preview: Heavyweights, Debutants, and Rivalries Set to Thrill

2025/26 NWFL Premiership Season Preview: Heavyweights, Debutants, and Rivalries Set to Thrill

The 2025/26 Nigeria Women's Football League (NWFL) Premiership season officially kicks off on Wednesday, November 26, with 20 top-flight clubs across two groups battling for early momentum in a campaign expected to deliver high-stakes competition, debutante surprises, and renewed rivalries.

The spotlight falls on the South-South derby as defending champions Bayelsa Queens host 2023/24 winners Edo Queens at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa. Historically, Bayelsa Queens have dominated this fixture, winning four of the last seven encounters, while Edo Queens’ solitary win came during the 2025 Super Six. With both sides boasting national team players and experienced squads, this opener could set the tone for a season-long title battle.

Group A Highlights:

Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetter Queens (Makwada): Pacesetter Queens make their top-flight debut after aggressive recruitment, blending youthful energy with seasoned campaigners. Adamawa Queens, seventh in Group B last season, will lean on midfield stability and defensive discipline to counter Pacesetter’s attacking flair.
Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens (Owerri): Both sides won 1–0 at home last season. Heartland have strengthened its attack, while Ekiti aim to maintain top-flight status. Fans should expect tactical midfield battles.
Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels (Bwari): Naija Ratels look to end a 10-game losing streak, while veteran coach Edwin Okon leads Ibom Angels’ title push. Last season’s home wins (2–1) for both teams suggest a closely contested encounter.
Castmog Ladies vs Rivers Angels (Abeokuta): Cancelled due to Castmog’s relegation for licensing non-compliance. Rivers Angels advance via bye, but Castmog had impressed during qualification, hinting at what could have been an upset.

Group B Highlights:

Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens (Lafia): Both sides won 1–0 at home last season. Nasarawa narrowly missed the title last season, while Delta aim to reclaim its elite status. Tactical precision and finishing could decide this clash.
Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels (Iyamho): Confluence struggled last season (11 losses) but holds a favourable historical record. Abia won the last two meetings, making this a high-tempo, tactical battle.
Sunshine Queens vs FC Robo Queens (Akure): Newly promoted Sunshine aim to avoid relegation, while Robo holds the edge in recent meetings. Defensive organisation versus attacking fluidity will be key.
Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies (Abiriba): Both teams, led by CAF-A licensed coaches, promise sharp tactical play. Last season’s 2–2 draw highlights the potential for another tight contest.
Dannaz Ladies vs Osun Babes (Lagos): South West derby sees Dannaz, in their third top-flight season, clash with promoted Osun Babes. Set-pieces and tactical maturity could define this matchup.

With debutants, tactical upgrades, and several coaches with national team pedigree, the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership promises drama, surprises, and intense competition across both groups. Fans can expect a thrilling season filled with heavyweight clashes, ambitious newcomers, and contests that will shape the league from day one.