Head Coach of Heartland Queens, Obi Ogbala, has said that his team’s 3–1 victory over title holders Bayelsa Queens at the Dan Anyiam Stadium has provided a major lift to their Super Six qualification ambition, Completesports.com reports.
The tactician spoke in his post-match reaction after watching his side overturn an early deficit to claim all three points in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), Group A encounter.
Bayelsa Queens had taken the lead two minutes after kick-off through Olabiyi, who capitalised on a communication lapse between the Heartland Queens defenders and their goalkeeper.
Also Read: NWFL: I Want To Replicate My Nasarawa Amazons’ Title Feat At Heartland Queens — Ogbala
However, Oluebube Umejiaku drew the hosts level in the 26th minute before Victory Odanlumen put them ahead in the 58th minute. Umejiaku then completed her brace in the 70th minute to seal the 3–1 win.
The result preserved Heartland Queens’ 100 per cent home record in the 2025/2026 NWFL season.
Ogbala: Super Six Target Has Always Been Heartland Queens’ Target
Reflecting on the win, Ogbala stressed that qualification for the Super Six has been the team’s objective from the outset.
“Yes, that has been our objective right from the beginning when I saw the groupings,” Ogbala began.
“I said then that all the teams in our group are Super Six materials and we’ve been there before. So I told them that we can do something differently to be there again. We’re working towards that, and I believe at the end of the day, Imolites will see a better and improved Heartland Queens that will go to the Super Six.
“I believe that today’s victory will give our Super Six target a very big boost, and we can only continue from here.”
Heartland Queens’ Victory Dedicated To Imo @50 Celebration
The former Nasarawa Amazons coach also revealed that the triumph was dedicated to Imo State’s 50th anniversary celebration, citing strong support from Governor Hope Uzodinma.
“We worked towards this and the motivation is there — all-round motivation coming from His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodinma. I told them that we’re playing for His Excellency. He has been around us, so we had to give him that special gift (victory).
“I know it’s Imo @50. I told them that this is our own way of celebrating. So we got the victory.”
Confidence Ahead Of Adamawa Queens Away Test
Despite a recent 5–0 defeat to Rivers Angels, Ogbala praised his players for responding positively and maintaining their strong home form.
Also Read: NWFL Fines Heartland Queens N1m For Assault On Match Officials
“Yes, I told the girls that we started the season well and we can’t afford to disappoint our fans who travel from far to support us. So we have to keep that home invincibility intact and possibly pick points away from home. I know the league is a marathon. We’re working the same way our opponents are working.
“With what has happened today, this will give us the motivation to do better. We’ll return to preparation for the next game, which is away against Adamawa Queens, because the Bayelsa Queens match has come and gone.”
On the possibility of securing a first away win, the Heartland Queens boss expressed belief without making a bold promise.
“If I say that, I’m making a promise. But yes, I have the conviction that we can win anywhere. We’re looking forward to going there and getting the three points. We’re working towards that.”
By Sab Osuji
