The 2025/26 NWFL kicked off with defending champions Bayelsa Queens defeating Edo Queens 3–2 in a dramatic opener at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex on Wednesday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Edo Queens took the lead in the 23rd minute through Rebecca Adegbemile, but Bayelsa Queens levelled on the stroke of half-time via Kindness Ifeanyi. Three minutes into the second half, Janet Akekoromowei put the champions ahead with her debut league goal, only for Adanna Nwachukwu to equalise for Edo Queens with her own debut strike in the 85th minute. Bayelsa Queens, however, had the final say, as Blessing Illvieda converted a stoppage-time penalty to secure a winning start to their title defence.
In Lagos, Dannaz Ladies opened their campaign with a 3–2 victory over Osun Babes at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
Osun Babes struck first through Sharon Shomuyiwa, but captain Fatima Sholaty levelled just four minutes later. She was making her first start in six months after missing last season through injury.
Second-half goals from Korie Ulumma and Ajoke Akinbo secured all three points for Dannaz Ladies, despite Robiat Taofeeq briefly restoring parity late in the match.
Heartland Queens recovered from an early setback to defeat Ekiti Queens 2–1 in Owerri.
Amarachi Okoronkwo gave Ekiti the lead inside three minutes, but Chizoba Johnson equalised before Emmanuella James sealed the win in the 37th minute.
The clash between Confluence Queens and Abia Angels ended in a thrilling 2–2 draw at Iyamho.
Funmilayo Adefuye opened the scoring for Abia Angels, while Akosile Mary levelled just before half-time.
Blessing Sunday put Confluence ahead early in the second half, but Blessing Okon restored parity midway through the game.
Blessing Sunday put Confluence Queens ahead early in the second half, but Blessing Okon restored parity midway through the game.
In Akure, FC Robo Queens claimed the only away victory of the day, edging Sunshine Queens 1–0 thanks to a first-half stoppage-time strike from Marvellous Oladuni.
At the Lafia City Stadium, Nasarawa Amazons began their campaign with a 2–1 comeback win over Delta Queens.
Nora Davies stunned the hosts with a fourth-minute opener, but goals from Olushola Shobowale and Hembafan Ayatsea turned the contest around for the Amazons.
Adamawa Queens started the season strongly with a 2–0 victory over Pacesetter Queens in Makurdi, while Naija Ratels and Ibom Angels played out a goalless draw at the Bwari Stadium.
Elsewhere, Ahudiyannem Queens and Remo Stars Ladies also drew 0–0 at the Umuahia Township Stadium to round off the opening-day fixtures.
