The 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season kicks off on Wednesday, November 26, with 10 fixtures across two groups as 20 topflight clubs begin the race for early momentum. The new campaign promises high-intensity football, tactical evolution, and fierce rivalries renewed across the country.

The headline fixture takes place at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, where defending champions Bayelsa Queens host Edo Queens, the 2023/24 champions, in a fiery South-South derby.

This matchup has quickly grown into one of the league’s most anticipated clashes. Bayelsa Queens boast the superior head-to-head record, four wins in the last seven meetings, while Edo Queens have managed just one victory in that period. That lone win, however, came during the 2025 Super Six, where Edo edged Bayelsa 1–0 to hand them their only defeat of the season. With both squads stacked with national team talent and seasoned contenders, the opener could set the tone for a thrilling title race.

Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetter Queens

Pacesetter Queens make their topflight debut after a busy recruitment drive that blends youthful vibrancy with experienced campaigners. Hakeem Busari’s side will hope to follow the footsteps of South West newcomers like Remo Stars Ladies and Dannaz Ladies, who survived their first seasons.

Adamawa Queens, seventh in Group B last season, will lean on discipline in midfield and a compact defensive structure to contain Pacesetter’s attacking energy. Expect a tightly contested duel with tactical chess on display.

Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens 

Both teams recorded identical 1–0 home wins in this fixture last season. Heartland Queens, eager to rebound from an underwhelming campaign, have reinforced their frontline and will aim to dominate at home. Ekiti Queens, entering their third straight year in the topflight, are focused on stability and survival.

An intense midfield battle should shape this encounter, with both sides seeking a strong season start.

Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels 

Naija Ratels enter the new season desperate to reset after losing all their matches at the Super Six, extending their losing streak to 10. Ibom Angels, guided by veteran coach Edwin Okon, narrowly missed Super Six qualification and are keeping their sights firmly on a title push.

Both teams won their home fixtures 2–1 last season, making this another finely balanced fixture likely to be decided by small margins.

Castmog Ladies vs Rivers Angels — Abeokuta

This fixture has been officially cancelled as Rivers Angels were granted a bye following Castmog Ladies’ relegation over licensing and registration issues.

Before its cancellation, the tie was tipped as a potential upset, with Castmog impressive during qualification and Rivers Angels arriving as favourites despite a recent 1–1 draw against Remo Stars Ladies.

Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens

Nasarawa Amazons, consistent title challengers, begin another pursuit after narrowly missing out last season. Delta Queens, champions in 2022/23, have failed to make the Super Six for two years and will be desperate for a strong return.

Last season’s meetings ended in 1–0 home wins for both sides, another indicator of the tactical discipline and narrow margins likely to define this fixture.

Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels

Confluence Queens endured a brutal 2024/25 campaign, losing 11 of their 14 matches, but historically hold a 4–1–2 record against Abia Angels. However, Abia Angels have won the last two meetings, including a slender 1–0 victory, and come into this season confident.

Expect a fast-paced game as Confluence aim to reset their fortunes while Abia pursue consistency.

Sunshine Queens vs FC Robo Queens

Newly promoted Sunshine Queens are eager to avoid an instant relegation battle. FC Robo Queens hold a slight edge in recent meetings, winning three of the last five, but Sunshine’s last victory in the rivalry was a dominant 3–0 win.

Robo’s attacking fluidity against Sunshine’s defensive structure will likely decide this intriguing fixture.

Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies

One of the most tactically exciting fixtures of the week pits debutants Ahudiyannem Queens, led by former Super Falcons assistant Ann Chiejine, against Remo Stars Ladies, coached by CAF-A license holder Wemimo Matthew.

The duel between the only two CAF-A licensed coaches in the league promises smart adjustments and disciplined football. Last season’s 2–2 draw in Umuahia suggests another competitive meeting is on the cards