The 2026 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship got off to a thrilling start in Calabar on Saturday, with six teams recording victories as the race for promotion to the NWFL Premiership officially commenced.
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Sports247 reports that 20 goals were scored across eight matches on an action-packed Matchday One, highlighting the quality and competitiveness of this year’s tournament.
In Group A, DreamStar Ladies delivered one of the standout performances of the day, defeating Rosaria Victrix 3-1. Anuoluwapo Awotidoye bagged a brace, while Khadija Kamarudeen added another to hand the Lagos side an impressive opening victory.
Delta Babes also began their campaign on a winning note, overcoming First Mahi Babes 2-1 courtesy of goals from Miracle Edafe and Nancy Kehinde.
Group B produced mixed fortunes as Pelican Stars edged Ikukuoma Queens 2-1 through strikes from Amarachi Abel and Ewa Peace.
Meanwhile, Moje Queens and Gallant Queens shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, the first stalemate of the championship.
In Group C, Wazbak International Sports Academy emerged as one of the day’s biggest winners, battling to a dramatic 3-2 victory over Fortress Ladies despite facing stern resistance. Rangers Women and Unification FC, however, settled for a goalless draw in a tightly contested encounter.
Group D belonged to Imo Striker Queens, who produced the most dominant display of the opening round with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Chosen Generation Angels.
Mmesoma Amaechi scored twice after Anastasia Uzor had opened the scoring. Ghetto Tigers also secured a valuable 1-0 victory against Kwara Ladies, with Gift Udo Mama netting the decisive goal.
With only one team from each group progressing to the promotion playoffs, the opening results have already intensified the battle for qualification.
Attention now shifts to Matchday Two, where several clubs will be aiming to consolidate their positions, while others look to revive their promotion hopes after disappointing starts.
The championship continues in Calabar with every point proving crucial in the race for a place in the NWFL Premiership.
