By Blitzik Sports
Sunshine Queens played out a 1-1 draw with Osun Babes on Thursday in a preparatory game ahead of the 2025 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship playoffs.
The encounter, held at the Oda Game Village in Akure, saw both sides locked in a goalless stalemate at halftime despite showcasing impressive football skills to the delight of fans at the venue.
The second half witnessed a more tactical and purposeful display from both teams, as their coaches sought to fine-tune their squads for a promotion push to the women’s elite league.
Osun Babes took the lead in the 69th minute when Victory Odanlumen capitalized on a pinpoint pass from Nancy to slot past the onrushing Sunshine Queens goalkeeper.
Undeterred, the Akure-based side responded with renewed energy, making key substitutions that helped them regain control of the game.
Their pressing paid off in the 81st minute when Ololade Akintunde delivered a dangerous cross that resulted in a free-kick opportunity.
Precious Edewor stepped up and expertly converted the free kick to level the score for the home side.
Speaking after the match, Sunshine Queens head coach Rafiu Oseni commended both teams for putting up a solid performance, emphasising the importance of the friendly in preparing for the upcoming playoffs.
“We created many goal-scoring chances, but converting them was a bit difficult. That’s something we’ve identified and will work on,” Oseni said.
He also highlighted the need for improvement from his wingers in delivering crosses and square passes.
“We are building a strong team for the championship playoffs. With more high-quality friendly matches like this, our players will gain confidence,” he added.
“No amount of training can substitute for real match experience. That’s why we’re appealing to management to approve at least four more friendly matches — two at home and two away — to help the team gel better ahead of the playoffs.”
Sunshine Queens Media