Bayelsa Queens, champions of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL), began their new campaign with a pulsating 3–2 victory over 2022/2023 champions Edo Queens at the Samson Siasia Stadium. The match lived up to expectations as a fierce South-South rivalry, producing five goals and relentless end-to-end action.

 

Edo Queens struck first in the 23rd minute when Adegbemile Rebecca rose highest to head home from a corner, beating Bayelsa Queens goalkeeper Linda Jiwuakwu.

 

The Prosperity Girls responded just before halftime, with Kindness Chinaza firing in the equaliser in the 44th minute to send both sides into the break level at 1–1.

 

Bayelsa Queens came out firing immediately after the restart, taking the lead in the 46th minute through Janet Akekoromowei, who finished neatly to put the hosts ahead.

 

Edo Queens refused to back down and were rewarded with a late leveller when substitute Nwachukwu Adanna struck in the first minute of stoppage time (90+1), though the goal briefly sparked protests before it was eventually allowed to stand.

 

But the drama wasn’t over. Deep into added time, Bayelsa Queens captain Blessing Ilivieda restored her side’s lead from the penalty spot in the 97th minute after an Edo Queens defender was penalised for a handball inside the box.

 

Speaking after the match, Bayelsa Queens head coach Whyte Ogbonda praised his players’ composure under pressure.

 

“It was a tough game as we expected, but I give kudos to my girls for keeping their cool and playing according to plan,” he said.

 

“We have laudable plans for this season, and we’ll take each game as it comes. Today wasn’t easy, but we’re happy to start with a win.”

 

The dramatic victory gives the Prosperity Girls a strong start to their new NWFL campaign as they aim to defend their crown.