Heartland Queens will be looking to turn their season around as they face Nasarawa Amazons in a crucial NWFL Premiership Matchday 6 fixture at the Lafia City Stadium on Wednesday.

This will be the third meeting between the two sides, with past encounters producing mixed results. Last season, both teams won their home matches, while their clash at the 2024 NWFL Super Six playoffs ended in a goalless draw.

Heading into this match, Nasarawa Amazons hold the advantage, sitting fourth in the league table with nine points, while Heartland Queens are struggling in seventh place with just two points. The Owerri-based team recently played out a goalless draw against Dannaz Ladies, while the Amazons suffered a 2-0 defeat to Edo Queens.

Heartland coach Obi Ogbala, who previously had a successful stint at Nasarawa Amazons, is under pressure to deliver a positive result. His team is winless in five matches, and another poor outing could further derail their season.

Ogbala has key selection decisions to make across all departments, particularly in goal, where he may choose between youth and experience. Amarachi Atulayo could start ahead of former Nasarawa goalkeeper Uchenna Chukwu.

In defence, Oluomachi Onwere, Chisom Henry, Prisca Nwachukwu, and are expected to feature, while midfield duties could be handled by Oluchi Okwara, Samson Faith, and rising star Endurance Omoraka. Captain Chimebere Opara will lead the attack alongside Emmanuella James, Onyinyechi Kalu, and in-form striker Monica Matthew.

A strong performance in Lafia could be the turning point Heartland Queens need to revive their season and push for silverware.

Editorial

Heartland Queens are running out of time to salvage their NWFL Premiership campaign. A team with championship ambitions cannot afford to be winless after five matches, and this clash against Nasarawa Amazons is their best opportunity to spark a turnaround.

The pressure is on Coach Obi Ogbala. Facing his former club adds an extra layer of tension, but the real challenge is getting his players to believe in their abilities again. Confidence is low, and the only solution is a positive result.

Heartland’s attacking struggles have been a major issue. A goalless draw against Dannaz Ladies showed their inability to convert chances, and that must change if they hope to get a result in Lafia. The inclusion of Monica Matthew, who has already scored twice this season, could provide the cutting edge they need.

For Nasarawa Amazons, this game is an opportunity to strengthen their position in the top half of the table. A win would keep them in contention for the league title, while a loss could shake their momentum.

With both teams having plenty at stake, expect a fierce battle in Lafia. If Heartland Queens truly want redemption, they must rise to the occasion.

Did You Know?

1. 
   
2. Heartland Queens and Nasarawa Amazons have faced each other three times in the last year, with each team winning one and drawing once.
   
3. Nasarawa Amazons are former NWFL champions and one of Nigeria’s most successful women’s clubs.
   
4. Heartland Queens are winless in five matches, making this a must win game to revive their season.
   
5. The NWFL Premiership is Nigeria’s top tier women’s football league, producing some of the country’s finest female footballers.
   
6. Monica Matthew, one of Heartland’s key forwards, has already scored two goals this season.