Bayelsa begin NWFL title defence against Edo Queens

Defending champions Bayelsa Queens will open their 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League Premiership campaign against 2024 titleholders Edo Queens in a highly anticipated South-South derby at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa, on Wednesday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The clash marks the start of a season set to feature 20 topflight clubs competing across two groups, with early momentum expected to shape the race for honours.
Bayelsa Queens, who dominated last season’s Super Six to claim the league crown, have historically enjoyed the upper hand over Edo Queens, winning four of the last seven meetings.
Edo’s solitary victory in the 1–0 win during the 2025 Super Six represents the only blemish on Bayelsa’s near-perfect record.
Both sides enter the new season with experienced squads, including national team players, setting the stage for a fixture that could establish early title favourites.
Beyond the headline South-South derby, the season opener features a host of intriguing fixtures.
In Group A, Adamawa Queens will host Pacesetter Queens in Makwada, as the newcomers aim to impress in their first topflight campaign.
Heartland Queens face Ekiti Queens in Owerri, while Naija Ratels take on Ibom Angels in Abuja, each contest promising tactical battles shaped by last season’s results.
Castmog Ladies’ scheduled clash with Rivers Angels in Abeokuta has been cancelled following Castmog’s relegation and Rivers’ subsequent bye.
Group B sees Nasarawa Amazons face Delta Queens in Lafia, with both sides seeking to assert their credentials early.
Confluence Queens meet Abia Angels in Iyamho in a fixture likely to produce a high-tempo encounter.
Sunshine Queens and Robo Queens lock horns in Akure, while debutants Ahudiyannem Queens challenge Remo Stars Ladies in Abiriba, a meeting of two CAF-A licensed women’s coaches. Dannaz Ladies host newly promoted Osun Babes in Lagos, as both sides aim to build early-season momentum.
With new teams, reinvigorated rivalries, and tactical upgrades across squads and coaching staffs, the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership promises drama from the outset.

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