It was a spirited evening at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan as Pacesetter Queens marked their first home game of the 2024/25 Nigeria Women Football League season, but visiting Rivers Angels proved just a step sharper, claiming a hard-fought 2–1 victory on Matchday 3.
Rivers Angels got off to a flying start, breaking the deadlock as early as the second minute through Grace Saliu, who pounced on a loose ball to hand the Jewel of Rivers an ideal opening.
Pacesetter Queens responded admirably, settling into the game and pushing forward with purpose. Their efforts paid off in the 28th minute when Teslimot Balogun calmly converted to bring the hosts level at 1–1, sending the home crowd into celebrations.
However, Rivers Angels regained control before the break. In the 40th minute, Ramotalahi Kareem restored the visitors’ lead with a composed finish, putting Rivers Angels 2–1 up at halftime.
The second half delivered intensity, grit, and determination from both sides. Pacesetter Queens fought hard to find another equaliser in front of their home supporters, but the Rivers Angels defence held firm, managing the game well and seeing out the contest.
Despite a spirited display from Pacesetter Queens in their maiden home appearance of the season, Rivers Angels’ early sharpness and clinical finishing proved decisive.
The result sees Rivers Angels continue their strong start to the campaign, while Pacesetter Queens will look to bounce back as the season progresses.
