The 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season kicked off on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, with a thrilling Matchday One that served up late drama, brilliant comebacks, and bold early statements across nine centres nationwide.

The headline fixture at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa lived up to its blockbuster billing as defending champions Bayelsa Queens edged 2024 champions Edo Queens 3–2 in a pulsating contest.

Rebecca Adegbemile fired Edo Queens ahead in the 23rd minute, but Kindness Ifeanyi levelled before halftime.

Three minutes into the restart, Janet Akekerowei put the hosts in front, only for Adanna Nwachukwu to drag the visitors back into the game late on.

With the match destined for a draw, Blessing Ilivieda struck a stoppage-time winner to hand the Prosperity Girls a dramatic victory.

In Makurdi, Adamawa Queens began their new campaign on a bright note, beating league debutants Pacesetter Queens 2–0 courtesy of goals from Ifeoma Damian and Mary Sunday.

Owerri saw a spirited display from Heartland Queens, who overturned Amarachi Okoronkwo’s opener to claim a 2–1 win over Ekiti Queens, thanks to second-half goals from Chizoba Johnson and Emmanuella James.

In Abuja, Naija Ratels dominated possession but were forced to settle for a 0–0 draw against a resolute Ibom Angels side.

Last season’s runners-up Nasarawa Amazons opened their title charge with a 2–1 comeback victory over Delta Queens.

After Nora Davies put the visitors ahead, quick-fire goals from Olushola Shobowale and Hembafan Ayatsea sealed the comeback.

In Iyamho, Abia Angels battled to a hard-earned 2–2 draw with Confluence Queens. Mary Akosile and Blessing Sunday scored for the hosts, while Funmilayo Adefuye and Blessing Okon ensured the visitors returned home with a point.

Elsewhere, FC Robo Queens secured a vital 1–0 away win over Sunshine Queens in Akure, courtesy of a composed finish from Marvellous Oladuni.

At the Onikan Stadium in Lagos, Dannaz Ladies edged Osun Babes 3–2 in a gripping five-goal thriller. Fatima Solaty, Korie Ulumma, and Ajoke Akinbo powered the hosts to victory, while Sharon Shomuyiwa and Robiat Taofeeq struck for the visitors.

In Umuahia, newcomers Ahudiyannem Queens showed promise on their top-flight debut, holding Remo Stars Ladies to a goalless draw to wrap up an eventful opening weekend.