By IJEOMA OKIGBO

Matchday 16 of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership promises high drama as nine fixtures unfold across the country on Wednesday, with crucial points at stake—particularly in Group B.

Group A fixtures will largely be played for pride following confirmed Super Six qualification and relegation outcomes, the spotlight firmly shifts to Group B, where both qualification and survival battles remain wide open.

Defending champions Bayelsa Queens return to Yenagoa aiming to reinforce their dominance in spite of them qualifying for the Super Six.

Their emphatic 4–1 win in the reverse fixture in Adamawa highlighted their attacking depth and control, and they will be keen to maintain that standard at home.

Adamawa Queens, however, face a stern test. Struggling for consistency this season, they must remain disciplined and compact while capitalising on limited chances against a clinical Bayelsa side.

In Owerri, Rivers Angels are brimming with confidence following a commanding 5–0 victory over Heartland Queens in their first meeting. Known for their structured play and attacking efficiency. Rivers will look to assert control once again.

Heartland Queens, though inconsistent, will aim to restore pride on home soil. Defensive discipline will be key, as any lapses could be heavily punished.

Edo Queens head into their clash against relegated Pacesetter Queens of Oyo as one of the league’s most in-form teams. Their narrow 2–1 win in the reverse fixture showcased their ability to grind out results.

With pressure off, Pacesetter Queens may adopt a more adventurous approach at home, but Edo Queens’ quality and confidence make them clear favourites.

At the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti Queens face Ibom Angels in what promises to be a closely contested encounter. Both sides have shown flashes of quality but have struggled with consistency.

Ibom Angels, in particular, possess attacking threat but remain vulnerable defensively. This match could hinge on key moments, especially from set-pieces.

In group B, a north central derby in Lafia sees Nasarawa Amazons take on Confluence Queens in a crucial encounter. Their first meeting ended 1–1, underlining how evenly matched both sides are.

Nasarawa Amazons have shown greater consistency in recent weeks and will look to leverage home advantage, while Confluence Queens’ resilience, especially away from home, make them dangerous opponents. Set-pieces and late moments could prove decisive.

In Akure, Sunshine Queens host Osun Babes in a South-West derby where local pride is at stake. The reverse fixture ended goalless, and another tight contest is expected.

Sunshine Queens will rely on structured buildup and possession play, while Osun Babes arrive with renewed confidence and improved attacking intent.

One of the standout fixtures takes place in Lagos, where FC Robo Queens face Remo Stars Ladies in a fiercely contested South-West derby.

Remo Stars Ladies hold a slight edge from the first leg and will look to build on their disciplined defensive setup and quick transitions.

Robo Queens, however, are traditionally strong at home and possess attacking threats capable of turning the game, especially from wide areas. This clash could develop into an open, end-to-end battle.

Ahudiyannem Queens will be eager to avenge their narrow 2–1 defeat to Dannaz Ladies of Lagos in the reverse fixture.

The Abia-based side has shown improved form in recent weeks and will look to press high at home. Dannaz Ladies, though inconsistent, remain dangerous on the counterattack and could capitalise on defensive lapses.

Elsewhere, Abia Angels and Delta Queens renew their rivalry in what promises to be a tight contest. Abia Angels secured a narrow 1–0 away win in the reverse fixture and will aim to replicate that disciplined performance.

Group A teams Bayelsa Queens, Rivers Angels, and Edo Queens have all secured qualification for the Super Six, while FC Robo Queens from Group B have joined the trio.

Two spots remain open in Group B and will be fiercely contested, with three matchdays left before the end of the regular season.

The Super Six playoffs will feature the top three teams from each group, with the winner crowned league champions. (NAN)

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