Bayelsa Queens Set for South-South Showdown Against Edo Queens in NWFL Opener

Bayelsa Queens will kick off their 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership campaign against 2024 titleholders Edo Queens in a highly anticipated South-South derby at the Samson Siasia Stadium on Wednesday.

The fixture is the beginning of a season featuring 20 topflight clubs split across two groups, with early form expected to play a decisive role in the race for honours.

Bayelsa Queens, who dominated last season’s Super Six to claim the league crown, have historically held the upper hand over Edo Queens, winning four of their last seven encounters.

Edo Queens’ solitary victory, a 1–0 win during the 2025 Super Six, remains the only blemish on Bayelsa’s near-perfect record.

Both sides enter the new season with experienced squads, including several national team players, setting the stage for a contest that could signal early title favourites.

Beyond the headline South-South clash, the season opener offers a number of intriguing fixtures.

In Group A, Adamawa Queens will host Pacesetter Queens in Makurdi, as the newcomers aim to make an impression in their first topflight campaign.

Heartland Queens face Ekiti Queens in Owerri, while Naija Ratels take on Ibom Angels in Abuja, promising tactical battles shaped by last season’s outcomes.

Meanwhile, Castmog Ladies’ scheduled match against Rivers Angels in Abeokuta has been cancelled following Castmog’s relegation.

Group B kicks off with Nasarawa Amazons taking on Delta Queens in Lafia, both teams eager to assert themselves early.

Confluence Queens meet Abia Angels in Iyamho in a fixture expected to produce high-tempo action.

Sunshine Queens and Robo Queens clash in Akure, while debutants Ahudiyannem Queens challenge Remo Stars Ladies in Abiriba, a meeting of two CAF-A licensed women’s coaches.

Dannaz Ladies host newly promoted Osun Babes in Lagos, with both sides seeking to build early momentum.