Heartland FC will take to the pitch this Sunday for one of the most defining matches in their recent history — a final-day clash against fellow strugglers Akwa United that will decide whether the Owerri-based club remains in Nigeria’s top-flight football or slips into the lower division.
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2024/25 season comes to a nail-biting close on Sunday, with Heartland FC perched precariously in 17th position with 45 points from 37 matches and a goal difference of -2. Their opponents, Akwa United, sit just one point behind in 18th place with 44 points.
Only one of them can realistically survive.
The Survival Equation
The permutations are clear: Heartland must win to reach 48 points — a tally that could secure their safety depending on other results involving El-Kanemi Warriors (16th, 46 pts) and Bayelsa United (13th, 49 pts).
Should Heartland fail to win, the consequences could be dire. A draw would leave them on 46 points — potentially level with El-Kanemi Warriors — and a defeat would see them overtaken by Akwa United and at serious risk of relegation, depending on goal difference.
Complicated Calculations
- A Heartland win takes them to 48 points and ensures Akwa United are relegated.
- A draw opens the door for Akwa United to leapfrog them with a win and places Heartland’s fate in the hands of El-Kanemi Warriors.
- A loss would leave Heartland at 45 points — and likely relegated, barring a collapse from other teams.
Also in the mix are El-Kanemi Warriors, who host Sunshine Stars in Maiduguri. A draw or win keeps them safe, but a defeat, combined with wins from both Heartland and Akwa United, could drag them down on goal difference.
Bayelsa United appear safe with 49 points and a neutral goal difference, but a heavy defeat to champions Remo Stars and unfavourable scorelines elsewhere could make them last-minute casualties.
Club’s Rallying Cry
Speaking ahead of the clash, Heartland head coach Emeka Nduka described the fixture as a “final before the final,” urging supporters to turn out in full voice at the Dan Anyiam Stadium.
“We know what’s at stake. It’s not just about football — it’s about pride, history, and our future. We’ve trained hard, we’ve talked, now we act,” Nduka told reporters in Owerri.
Heartland, formerly known as Iwuanyanwu Nationale, were once the pride of the NPFL, boasting five domestic league titles and a CAF Champions League final appearance. Relegation would mark a painful chapter for one of Nigeria’s most historic clubs.
Final Day Fixtures (Sunday, 25 May – 16:00 WAT)
- Heartland FC vs Akwa United – Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri
- El-Kanemi Warriors vs Sunshine Stars – El-Kanemi Stadium, Maiduguri
- Bayelsa United vs Remo Stars – Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa
Verdict:
For Heartland FC, it is a match that could secure their future or confirm a fall from grace. The stage is set. The stakes are high. Owerri holds its breath.
