2026 NWFL Championship Matchday One Preview: Promotion Race Ignites Calabar

By Saheed Afolabi

The battle for promotion to the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership officially begins on Saturday, July 11 as 16 clubs kick off the 2026 NWFL Championship in Calabar, Cross River State.

Eight fixtures will spark up the opening round across U.J. Esuene Stadium and Saint Patrick Stadium, with every result carrying immense importance in the race for the group stage playoffs and, ultimately, top-flight promotion.

Only the top placed teams in the four groups will advance to the decisive knockout stages, where two coveted spots in the NWFL Premiership will be decided.

Group A – U.J. Esuene Stadium

Delta Babes vs First Mahi Babes

Delta Babes launch their fourth straight Championship campaign hungry to finally secure a return to the Premiership. After several near-misses in recent seasons, the Asaba-based outfit know that a commanding start in Calabar could set a winning tone.

First Mahi Babes, appearing in the Championship for the third time, are equally motivated. Having fallen just short of promotion by two points last season, the side will look to honour the memory of their late coach, Gibbory, by hitting the ground running with maximum points.

DreamStar Ladies vs Rosaria Victrix

Former Premiership side DreamStar Ladies return to the scene of their 2024 relegation seeking redemption. Packed with experience and pedigree, the Lagos club are among the favourites to challenge strongly for promotion.

Debutants Rosaria Victrix, however, will fancy their chances of causing an opening-day upset against one of the more established names in the competition.

Group B – U.J. Esuene Stadium

Pelican Stars vs Ikukuoma Queens 

Hosts Pelican Stars will look to harness home advantage and passionate local support when they face Championship newcomers Ikukuoma Queens. The seven-time Nigerian champions have been knocking on the Premiership door since 2022 and came agonisingly close during the 2024 edition in Calabar. A strong start is expected.

Ikukuoma Queens will aim to make a memorable debut and disrupt the hosts’ promotion ambitions.

Moje Queens vs Gallant Queens

This promises to be one of Matchday One’s most compelling clashes. Gallant Queens have repeatedly come close to promotion — missing out on goal difference in 2024 and finishing just two points behind the promoted teams last season. They also boast a dominant 5-0 head-to-head win over Moje Queens from the previous Championship.

Moje Queens will be determined to turn the tables and start their campaign on a positive note.

Group C – Saint Patrick Stadium

Rangers Women FC vs Unification FC

Championship debutants Rangers Women FC, fresh from promotion out of the Nationwide League, take on experienced campaigners Unification FC. The Enugu side will draw inspiration from Rangers International’s recent successes as they chase history in women’s football.

Unification FC return for their third Championship appearance hoping to recapture the form that saw them finish as runners-up in their debut season.

Fortress Ladies vs Wazbak International Sports Academy

Two clubs on near-identical upward trajectories meet in what could be a Group C highlight. Fortress Ladies improved from third place in 2024 to second in their group last season and are now fully focused on securing promotion. Coach Jimmy Aimuagbonrie has declared their chances “very high,” stressing that the team is experienced, battle-hardened, and “very ready for promotion to NWFL Premiership.”

Wazbak International Sports Academy have followed a similar path (third in 2024, second in 2025) and will also view this encounter as a crucial early test.

Group D – Saint Patrick Stadium

Ghetto Tigers FC vs Kwara Ladies

Ghetto Tigers FC arrive in strong form after an impressive season that included a Lagos State FA Cup final appearance and their debut in the 2026 President Federation Cup. However, they face a seasoned Kwara Ladies side with valuable Championship experience.

Imo Striker Queens vs Chosen Generation Angels FC

Imo Striker Queens, guided by National Sports Festival gold medal-winning coach Nelly Orisakwe, boast a youthful, ambitious squad capable of making a serious promotion push.

Chosen Generation Angels, in their third Championship appearance, are determined to improve on back-to-back last-place group finishes and finally make their mark.