Rivers Angels delivered the perfect birthday present for head coach Tosan Blankson and goalkeeper trainer Martins Datoru with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Ekiti Queens in Abeokuta on Wednesday.

The narrow win ensured that celebrations within the Garden City camp were not limited to cake and candles but also included three valuable points on the road, Footballrover reports.

Fast Start Sets the Tone for Rivers Angels

The PH Angels wasted no time asserting themselves. Patience Otubo stunned Ekiti Queens just two minutes into the contest, finishing clinically to hand the visitors an early advantage.

The early breakthrough settled Blankson’s side, who controlled large spells of the first half and managed the tempo effectively against a determined Ekiti side eager to respond.

Though the hosts pushed for an equaliser, the Jewels of Rivers stayed compact and disciplined, heading into the break with their slim lead intact.

Second-Half Response and Late Nerves

The visitors doubled their cushion 20 minutes into the second half when Taiwo Ajibade found the back of the net, giving the Rivers ladies breathing space and putting them firmly in control.

However, the contest was far from over. Miracle Ohaeri reduced the deficit just four minutes later, to mount pressure on the visitors.

Ekiti Queens threw numbers forward in search of a late leveller, but Rivers Angels held their shape and defended resolutely to secure maximum points at the final whistle.

Birthday Joy for Blankson and Datoru

The victory carried special significance as it coincided with the birthdays of head coach Blankson and goalkeeper coach Martins Datoru.

For Blankson, who had earlier expressed his desire for a win as a fitting celebration, his players delivered in style.

Results from other NWFL matches

Ruthless Ahudiyannem Run Riot in Aba

It was a festival of goals at the Enyimba Stadium as Ahudiyannem Queens dismantled Confluence Queens 5–1.

Orji Chinwendu set the tone early, striking in the 12th minute. Chizaram Onyenze doubled the advantage in 24 minutes before Agba Praise made it three just two minutes later.

Aliko Peace briefly pulled one back for Confluence Queens, but Tobi Ogenrugba restored the three-goal cushion before halftime.

Feranmi Odutade wrapped up the demolition late on, capping a dominant attacking display that sent a strong message to the rest of the league.

Damian Delivers in Abuja

In the capital, Adamawa Queens claimed a composed 2–0 win over Naija Ratels.

Ifeoma Damian was the difference-maker, striking just before halftime and again moments after the restart. Two clinical finishes, three priceless points.

Heartland Turn it Around in Owerri

It was a shocking comeback story in Owerri as Heartland Queens defeated Bayelsa Queens 3–1.

Bayelsa drew first blood through Olabiyi Alaba in the second minute, but Umejiaku Oluebube restored parity before the break.

An own goal by Agatha Thompson swung the momentum, and Oluebube sealed the win with her second of the evening.

Abia Angels Soar at Home

Back in Aba, Abia Angels secured a comfortable 2–0 victory over Dannaz Ladies.

Funmilayo Adefuye opened the scoring early, and Onyedikachi Ekezie’s second-half strike ensured the hosts saw out a professional performance.

Late Drama in Uyo

In Uyo, Edo Queens snatched a dramatic 2–1 win over Ibom Angels.

Chioma Moses struck inside two minutes for Edo. Juliet John levelled midway through the second half, but Mary Mamudu’s late effort in the 86th minute settled a fiercely contested encounter.

Remo Run Rampant in Ikenne

It was total control from Remo Stars Ladies, who swept aside Delta Queens 4–0.

Daniella Fagbenro grabbed a brace, including a stoppage-time finish, while Kehinde Ajayi and Deborah Kehinde added gloss to an already emphatic scoreline.

Sunshine Shines in Akure

A single goal settled it in Akure, where Sunshine Queens edged Nasarawa Amazons 1–0.

Victory Lucky’s 38th-minute strike proved decisive in a tightly fought contest.

Matchday Eight had it all — early fireworks, second-half comebacks, and late heartbreak.

With the title race and playoff spots heating up, the NWFL Premiership continues to serve up compelling football across the nation.

Walkover Drama in Lagos

The referee awarded Robo Queens a walkover following administrative complications concerning the visiting side at Onikan Stadium, after both teams turned up wearing the same kit colours.

The clash caused an initial 30-minute delay, followed by another 15 minutes of on-field discussions as officials waited for the away side to resolve the issue.

In total, 53 minutes passed without kickoff. When Osun Babes were unable to provide an alternative kit, the referee enforced competition rules, awarding a walkover to FC Robo Queens.

The home side received three points and three goals, with the match officially decided without play.

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Last Updated on February 18, 2026 9:36 pm by footballrover