5 Takeaways from the NWFL Premiership Super Six Opener

Edo Queens are the early pacesetters in the NWFL Super Six. (Photo Credit: Edo Queens/X)

5 Takeaways from the NWFL Premiership Super Six Opener

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 20:21 - 19.05.2024

The coveted league title is not the only thing at stake at the season-ending NWFL Premiership Super Six, a ticket to represent Nigeria at the CAF Women’s Champions League is also up for grabs.

Three matches were played on the opening day of the NWFL Premiership Super Six at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Bayelsa.

The Super teams lived up to the pre-tournament hype with eight goals scored across the matches for an average of over 2.6 goals per game. 

Let’s take a look at some key takeaways from an eventful matchday that saw Edo Queens emerge as the best entertainers. 

Edo Queens Make a Huge Statement 

Edo Queens put on a dominant display, thrashing Confluence Queens 5-1 in the opening match, with Emem Essien and Goodness Osigwe the stars of the show.

Edo Queens are the early pacesetters in the NWFL Super Six.
Edo Queens are the early pacesetters in the NWFL Super Six. (Photo Credit: Edo Queens/X)

Essien bagged a brace and Osigwe scored one and setting up another of the five goals. This result sends a clear message that Edo Queens are serious title contenders this season.

Heartland and Nasarawa Amazons Share Spoils  

In a closely contested affair, Heartland Queens and Nasarawa Amazons played out a goalless draw. 

Nasarawa Amazons and Heartland produced the only goalless affair.
Nasarawa Amazons and Heartland produced the only goalless affair. (Photo Credit: NWFL/X)

Both teams will be disappointed not to have secured all three points, but they can take solace in a solid defensive performance as they were able to keep a clean sheet in their opening fixture.

Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels Serve Up a Thriller 

The star match of the opening day saw host Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels battle to a 1-1 draw. 

Former champions Rivers Angels had to dig deep against the hosts.
Former champions Rivers Angels had to dig deep against the hosts. (Photo Credit: Rivers Angels/X)

The Queens started on the front foot when Fehintola Mabokanje put them ahead from the penalty spot, but Rita Peter's late strike ensured the points were shared. 

This game was big enough to have the presence of the First Lady of Bayelsa State, Mrs. Gloria Diri, which added to the atmosphere of this enthralling South-South derby.

Goalkeepers Steal the Spotlight 

In the Nasarawa Amazons vs Heartland Queens match, the goalkeepers were the heroes of the day. 

Heartland's Chukwu Uchenna made a crucial double save to deny Chinyere Kalu from the penalty spot, while the Nasarawa Amazons custodian also put in a solid performance to keep a clean sheet.

The Title Race is Wide Open 

With no team able to secure a maximum haul of three points on the opening day, the 2023/2024 NWFL Premiership Super Six is shaping up to be a closely contested affair.

Edo Queens, however, appear to be the favourites now have taken an early lead after that comprehensive and statement-making win.

But it is expected that despite their impressive start, the other contenders will be keen to respond in the coming matches, making for an exciting and unpredictable title race.

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