Ghetto Tigers Ladies manager Azeez Mustapha has described his team’s 1-0 victory over Kwara Ladies as a historic moment, after the Lagos-based side began their 2026 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship campaign with a crucial winning start.
The hard-fought Group D encounter was decided by Gift Udo Mama’s 54th-minute strike, giving Ghetto Tigers maximum points and a clean sheet against one of the most experienced teams in the competition.
Speaking exclusively with Sports247 after the match, Mustapha expressed delight with the result, noting that the victory carried extra significance due to the club’s previous struggles in opening fixtures.
“We played against a Kwara Ladies team that understands the championship very well, and we had never won our first game in the championship before yesterday. So it was a historic opening-day victory. Maximum points in the bag and a clean sheet to go with it. It is a dream start,” he said.
The manager also praised match-winner Gift Udo Mama for her determination and bravery in scoring the decisive goal, describing the effort as a reflection of the team’s commitment.
“She attacked the ball knowing fully well that she was going to hit the bar, and she made that decision nonetheless. The entire team appreciates the sacrifice, and that is the only reason we are on three points at this stage of the season.”
While pleased with the defensive organisation that helped secure the victory, Mustapha admitted that improving their attacking output remains a priority as the competition progresses.
“Our goal scoring, of course. Yes, we need to win, but it may get to the point where goals will be taken into account. So we need to score more goals. But we won’t throw caution to the wind.”
With only the group winners advancing to the promotion playoff stage, the Ghetto Tigers coach understands the importance of every result and believes his team must maintain balance between attacking ambition and defensive discipline.
The victory places Ghetto Tigers in a strong position in Group D, but Mustapha insists the journey is far from over as the club continues its push for a place in the NWFL Premiership.
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