Heartland Queens FC may have narrowly missed out on lifting the 2026 President Federation Cup trophy, but their historic run to the final has earned widespread praise from the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State Chapter.
The association has called on the Imo State Government to officially receive and host the team in recognition of what it described as one of the most remarkable achievements by a women’s football club from the South-East region.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of Imo SWAN, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, and Secretary, Tunde Liadi, the association commended the players and technical crew for their resilience throughout the competition. Heartland Queens lost 6-5 on penalties to Nasarawa Amazons after both sides settled for a 1-1 draw in regulation time during the final.
Imo SWAN noted that despite the heartbreaking defeat, the Owerri-based club demonstrated consistency, determination and the mentality of champions from the opening round to the final match.
“Losing the trophy in such heartbreaking circumstances was painful, but Heartland Queens gave a remarkable account of themselves. They fought gallantly, showed immense character and demonstrated the mentality of champions throughout the competition,” the statement read.
The association further stated that the team’s performance has positively projected Imo State on the national stage and deserves official recognition from the state government.
“We also appeal to the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, to receive and host the team as a gesture of appreciation and encouragement. Such recognition will boost the players’ morale and inspire them to achieve even greater success,” Chukwuemeka added.
Heartland Queens enjoyed an impressive run in the competition. The club successfully defended its Imo State FA Cup title before recording a 7-0 victory over Dragon Fury Ladies in the Round of 32 and defeating Ahudiyannem Queens 4-0 in the Round of 16. They went on to beat Ibom Angels 4-2 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in the quarter-finals before overcoming FC Robo Queens 2-1 in the semi-finals to book a place in their first-ever President Federation Cup final.
The team scored 16 goals and conceded just four throughout the tournament, underlining their strength at both ends of the pitch. Their appearance in the final also made history as the first women’s football club from the South-East to reach the President Federation Cup final.
Imo SWAN expressed confidence that sustained support and investment in the team would help Heartland Queens build on their recent success and compete for more honours in future competitions.
