Ahead of the new season, Pelican Stars and Olórí Babes have been promoted to the Nigeria Women Premier League (NWPL) following the conclusion of the pro-league play-offs on Friday night.
Historically, Pelican Stars of Calabar are the most successful side in the women’s top flight league with seven titles but have lost steam in recent years. They have however made it back to the Premier league second on the log with two wins in three and will look to stay up in order to restore their lost glory.
For Olórí Babes, it was a fairytale run with three wins in three games, four goals scored and none conceded. The newbies ended the play-offs top of the table and will now compete in the NWPL in the coming season.
Speaking on his team’s 100% record in sealing qualification, head coach of Olórí Babes Abayomi Ọlọ́rundá said: “It’s still unbelievable but actually, it is real. I am overwhelmed and lost for words.” Adding that “All things being equal, we will return to Warri and make sure we are ready for the Premier League.”
On the challenges he’s faced so far “I’m new in managing in women’s football. I’ve only been with Olórí Babes for 3months,” Ọlọ́rundá said.
“You have to know their mentality and understand how they (women) think but fortunately for me, being close to Christopher Danjuma who coaches a female team that I’m also close to helped me a lot.
“When I got the job I called him (Danjuma) and he gave me advice and tips; and they have been working so far.”
Next up for Olórí Babes ahead of their first NWPL season is that “We want to keep surprising people,” Ọlọ́runda added.
