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The NWFL Championship 2025 kicked off in style as Ahudiyannem Queens began their campaign with a thrilling victory over Pelican Stars of Calabar in front of a passionate home crowd at Abiriba, Abia State. The opening fixture showcased everything fans love about grassroots and women’s football, drama, tactics, resilience, and above all, the power of community support.
The atmosphere inside the Abiriba stadium was electric. Fans filled the stands with songs, drums, and cheers, creating an intimidating wall of sound that fueled the Queens to rise to the occasion. It was not just a football match; it was a festival of passion, unity, and hope for women’s football in Nigeria.
At the heart of the triumph was Coach Ann Chiejine, Super Falcons legend and respected tactician. Reflecting on her team’s performance, she balanced joy with humility, praising the players and supporters while reminding everyone that the journey has just begun.
“The Better Team Won” — Chiejine Reflects
“I must not fail to say Pelicans are a very good side. They are good, just that our tactics paid off today. But I know there are still one or two things we need to put in order. Right now, I believe we have not qualified, but when we play the next game and see the outcome, we will be able to say yes, we are qualified. Today, the better team won.”
Her words highlighted the competitiveness of the NWFL Championship, where every point matters and no team can afford to relax.
The Power of Fans in Abiriba
Chiejine’s biggest praise went to the supporters, who turned up in full force to back their team.
“Wow, it was something awesome. I’ve not seen this kind of crowd before. That’s the advantage of playing at home, the crowd comes to cheer you up, and it really motivated our players. I give it to them, kudos to them, and I pray and hope they come out in multitudes against the next team.”
For Ahudiyannem Queens, the fans were the twelfth player, lifting the team beyond their limits.
When asked about how the team executed the game plan, Chiejine pointed to set pieces and preparation on the training ground.
> “All our goals came from crosses. It was tactical. Everything we trained before the game, especially set pieces, was executed, and that’s how we won the game.”
It was a classic example of strategy meeting execution, showing that developmental football can also be highly tactical.
While the victory brought joy to Abiriba, the coach remained cautious.
“We are looking for three points in our next game. We are going all out for it. Like I said, we have not qualified yet. We will take each team as they come, and with time, this young team will get even better.”
Chiejine’s determination sets the tone for Ahudiyannem Queens’ NWFL Championship journey, keeping the team grounded as they aim for consistency.
The win over Pelican Stars is more than just three points. It highlights the growth of women’s football in Nigeria, the role of fans in shaping the game, and the importance of strong coaching at this level. The NWFL Championship 2025 has started with a bang, and Ahudiyannem Queens’ victory will surely be remembered as one of its standout opening moments.
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