Pelican Stars FC completed an unbeaten sweep of the 2026 NWFL Championship Playoffs on Wednesday, securing their place in the Nigeria Women Football League Premiership with a dramatic 1-0 victory over DreamStar Ladies FC at the U.J. Esuene Stadium.
Forward Blessing Ayila emerged as the hero, firing home deep into stoppage time to break DreamStar’s resistance and cap a flawless tournament campaign for the Cross River State government-owned side.
The Calabar-based outfit dominated the 16-team playoff tournament, winning all four of their matches. They opened with a 2-1 comeback win against Ikukuoma Queens, followed by a 2-0 shutout of Gallant Queens and a narrow 1-0 triumph over Moje Queens before Friday’s final victory.
The second promotion ticket went to Imo Strikers Queens, who edged Rangers Women FC 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a scoreless regulation time.
Cross River State Sports Commission Chairman, Etta Lawrence Itanya, praised the squad’s resilience, calling the promotion a “major achievement” for the state and commending both players and coaching staff for their dedication throughout the competition.
Pelican Stars Chairman, Mrs. Sefia Francis Aribiah, attributed the club’s return to Nigeria’s top-flight women’s football league to what she described as “hard work, discipline and unity.”
She extended gratitude to the state government, the Sports Commission, the technical crew, management, and supporters for their unwavering backing during the campaign.
We’ve got the edge. Get real-time reports, breaking scoops, and exclusive angles delivered straight to your phone. Don’t settle for stale news. Join LEADERSHIP NEWS on WhatsApp for 24/7 updates →
