NWFL Championship 2025: Meet the Stars Who Stole the Show in Abiriba

The 2025 NWFL Championship gave fans nine days of drama, passion, and unforgettable football moments. From September 13–21, the Abiriba Stadium was home to breathtaking saves, powerful goals, and players who rose above expectations.

While teams battled for promotion, some individuals lit up the tournament with standout performances. Here are the 11 stars who stole the show in Abiriba, earning their spots in the Best XI from Abiriba center of the tournament.

Eboth Drax (Ahudiyannem Queens, Goalkeeper)

The wall of Abiriba. Drax produced countless saves to keep her team alive in critical moments. Calm under pressure and fearless in one-on-ones, she was the safest pair of hands in the entire tournament.

Oparanmwegwa Pettra (Imo Striker Queens, Defender)

Pettra was more than a defender, she was a game-changer. Finishing the tournament as the top scorer with 5 goals, she combined defensive solidity with attacking brilliance. The ultimate two-way player and arguably the MVP of Abiriba center.

Ukamaka Ikechi (Ahudiyannem Queens, Defender & Captain)

Rugged, strong, and commanding, Ikechi was the defensive heartbeat of her side. Her leadership and determination made her a rock at the back and an inspiration to teammates.

Nwakolie Miracle (Delta Babes, Defender)

A warrior in every sense. Despite playing the entire competition with an injury, Miracle never gave up. Her leadership, commitment, and ability to fight through pain made her one of the most respected figures of the tournament in Abiriba Center.

Afeez Nofisat (Chosen Generation Angels, Left Full-Back)

The only natural left-footer wingback playing from central back at Abiriba Centre, Nofisat commanded her flank with class. She produced crucial clearances and interceptions, while also leading her team’s defensive shape. Reliable and consistent.

6. Lateef Rashidat (Wazbak Int’l, Midfield & Captain)

Rashidat was the engine of Wazbak Int’l. Her ability to drive attacks, create chances, and inspire teammates made her one of the most influential midfielders. A true captain’s performance all tournament.

Taiwo Ayomide (Wazbak Int’l, Midfield)

Young, fearless, and always battle-ready. Ayomide balanced Wazbak’s midfield with determination and grit. Her energy and work rate earned her recognition as one of the brightest prospects in Abiriba 

Nkwocha Precious (Imo Striker Queens, Midfield & Captain)

Precious was the creative hub of Imo Striker Queens. Driving play from midfield, she combined vision with goals, including the killer strike that knocked out favorites Osun Babes. A leader and a match-winner.

Chizaram Onyenze (Ahudiyannem Queens, Striker)

The only Striker to score an hat-trick at Abiriba. Onyenze’s long-range shooting and ability to create chances made her a constant nightmare for defenders. She proved she could decide games single-handedly.

Isiah Chidera (Ghetto Tigers Ladies, Striker)

She was the tallest player in Abiriba and used her frame to devastating effect. Winning aerial duels with ease, dropping back to link play, and scoring classic goal, Chidera was a complete forward.

Ugbala Osinachi (Imo Striker Queens, Striker)

Fast, skillful, and clinical with both feet. Osinachi scored a brace in the tournament and proved to be a 1v1 specialist. Her pace stretched defenses, and her finishing punished mistakes.

JOJ Active Arena Player Ratings (Out of 10)

Eboth Drax Ahudiyannem Queens Goalkeeper 9.0

Oparanmwegwa Pettra Imo Striker Queens Defender 9.5

Ukamaka Ikechi Ahudiyannem Queens Defender 7.5

Nwakolie Miracle Delta Babes Defender 8.0

Afeez Nofisat Chosen Generation Angels Left Full-Back 8.5

Lateef Rashidat Wazbak Int’l Midfield 7.5

Taiwo Ayomide Wazbak Int’l Midfield 9.0

Nkwocha Precious Imo Striker Queens Midfield 8.0

Chizaram Onyenze Ahudiyannem Queens Striker 8.5

Isiah Chidera Ghetto Tigers Ladies Striker 7.5

Ugbala Osinachi Imo Striker Queens Striker 8.0

The Best XI of Abiriba reflects the spirit of the 2025 NWFL Championship, courage, hunger, and game-changing brilliance. From Drax’s saves to Pettra’s record-breaking five goals, and from Precious’ decisive strike to Miracle’s warrior spirit, these players showed that women’s football in Nigeria is bursting with talent.

The spotlight now turns to the NWFL Premiership, where many of these names will aim to prove themselves at the highest level. For fans, the message is clear: the stars of tomorrow are already here, and they made Abiriba their stage.