Bayelsa Queens fought back to secure a crucial 1-1 draw against rivals Rivers Angels in a thrilling NWFL Matchday Five clash at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt.
Coach Whyte Ogbonda made several changes to his Bayelsa Queens squad, including a start for Super Falcons goalkeeper Monle Omini. The visitors were put under early pressure when Rivers Angels’ striker, Peace Effiong, capitalized on a defensive mistake to fire her side into the lead in the 10th minute.
However, Bayelsa Queens responded just 17 minutes later when a quick throw-in from Amblessed Ogbonnaya found Zainab Olapade, who smashed home the equalizer. The second half saw more drama as Rivers Angels were awarded a penalty following a mistake by Jennifer Oliver. But goalkeeper Monle Omini stepped up, producing a stunning double save to deny Aminat Folorunsho from the spot.
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Both teams had chances to win the game in the final minutes. Mercy Omokwo missed a one-on-one opportunity for Bayelsa Queens, while Rivers Angels’ captain, Ifeoma Paulinus, struck the crossbar.
With the result, Bayelsa Queens stay top of NWFL Group B with 11 points and a +8 goal difference, while Rivers Angels remain second with the same points but a +4 goal difference. Bayelsa Queens will next face Naija Ratels at home on February 19.
Editorial
The South-South derby between Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels once again showcased the quality and competitive spirit of women’s football in Nigeria. Matches like these highlight the growing depth of the NWFL, where tactical battles and individual brilliance define outcomes.
Bayelsa Queens showed great resilience, responding well after conceding early. Their ability to stay composed under pressure and capitalize on key moments reflects strong coaching and team chemistry. However, their struggles in front of goal remain an area that needs improvement, as seen with Mercy Omokwo’s late miss.
For Rivers Angels, the result will be frustrating. They had the upper hand early on and even had a golden opportunity to reclaim the lead through a penalty, but they failed to capitalize. These are the fine margins that separate champions from contenders.
With both teams level on points and separated only by goal difference, the NWFL Group B title race remains wide open. As the season progresses, consistency will be key, and both teams will need to refine their finishing if they hope to lift the trophy.
Did You Know?
- Bayelsa Queens are the defending NWFL champions, having won the league title in 2022.
- Rivers Angels hold the record for the most NWFL titles, with seven championships to their name.
- The NWFL was officially rebranded in 2017 to improve the professionalism and visibility of women’s football in Nigeria.
- Goalkeeper Monle Omini, who saved a penalty in this match, was part of Nigeria’s U20 squad that reached the final of the 2022 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
- The Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, where this match took place, was named after the former Nigerian international footballer who played for the Green Eagles in the 1970s.
