Ayila’s Late Winner Fires Pelican Stars FC to NWFL Premiership Promotion

Blessing Ayila’s dramatic late strike has sent Pelican Stars FC back to the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership after the Calabar-based side edged DreamStar Ladies 1–0 in a tense promotion playoff.

Ayila scored in the dying minutes of the match to break the deadlock, a goal that sealed Pelican Stars’ qualification for the top flight and sparked jubilant celebrations among players and fans.

The hard-fought victory marks a return to the highest level of women’s football in Nigeria for the "Robins," who held their nerve in a nervy encounter against DreamStar Ladies.

Pelican head Coach Ouesso Mathew praised his team’s resilience and tactical discipline.

With promotion secured, Pelican Stars FC will be playing in the Premiership which is the highest level of female football in the country.