Heartland Queens FC produced a sensational second-half performance to defeat Bayelsa Queens FC 3–1 in a high-intensity Matchday 8 clash at the Dan Anyiam Stadium on Thursday, February 18. The victory ended Bayelsa’s unbeaten run in the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) and left a lasting mark on the title race.
The match, which lived up to its billing as a Grade A encounter, was full of drama, tactical battles, and moments of individual brilliance. Heartland Queens, after falling behind early, mounted a powerful comeback to secure the win.
Bayelsa’s Early Lead
The visitors drew first blood in just the second minute when Olabiyi Alaba capitalized on a defensive mix-up at the back. Alaba latched onto a loose ball, calmly slotted past Heartland goalkeeper Amarachi Atulayo, and silenced the home crowd.
This early setback sparked a response from Heartland Queens, who quickly regained their attacking rhythm and began dominating possession.
Heartland’s Persistent Attack
Heartland’s dominance in possession was evident as they controlled the tempo of the game, moving the ball with purpose and creating several attacking opportunities. The first real breakthrough came when Umujiaku Oluebube turned home Emmanuella James’ cross, but the assistant referee’s offside flag ruled out the goal.
Unfazed, the home side continued to build pressure. Their persistence paid off in the 27th minute when Oluebube, again at the heart of the attack, received a perfectly placed pass from Chimebere Opara and drilled a low shot into the net, beating Agatha Thompson and bringing the score to 1–1.
Half-Time Tactical Battle
The rest of the first half became a tactical chess match. While Heartland controlled the game and looked for openings, Bayelsa remained dangerous on the counterattack. However, neither side could add to the score before the break, with both teams jockeying for position in the middle of the park.
Heartland Takes the Lead
The second half saw Heartland ramp up their attacking efforts. In the 59th minute, Oluebube’s powerful volley was cleared off the line, but Victory Odalumen, who was celebrating her birthday, reacted quickest. She forced the ball past the goalkeeper and into the net, completing the comeback for Heartland and giving them a 2–1 lead.
The home crowd erupted in celebration as Heartland now had the advantage, and they continued to play with confidence.
Oluebube’s Thunderous Strike
With momentum firmly on their side, Heartland sealed the win in the 71st minute. Oluebube, who had been a constant threat to the Bayelsa defense, was fouled several times in dangerous areas. Finally, she unleashed a thunderous strike from range, which took a deflection off Prisca Nwachukwu, wrong-footed Thompson, and nestled into the net for 3–1.
Bayelsa’s Efforts to Respond
Bayelsa coach Ogbonda White made four substitutions in an attempt to turn the tide, but Heartland stood firm. Coach Obi Ogbala made only two changes, ensuring that his side remained tactically disciplined and compact at the back. Despite the efforts of Bayelsa‘s substitutes, Heartland’s defense held firm to protect their lead.
Heartland’s Big Victory
This win was a morale-boosting result for Heartland, who now sit in fourth place in the NWFL standings. The victory could potentially reshape the title race, as Bayelsa Queens remain top, but their unbeaten run has been broken. Heartland Queens Coach Obi Ogbala reflected on their 3-1 win over Bayelsa Queens, stressing that qualifying for the Super Six has been their main goal from the start. He believes the victory will give the team a big boost in reaching that target. Ogbala also dedicated the win to Imo State’s 50th anniversary and praised the support from Governor Hope Uzodinma, calling it a motivating factor in their triumph.
What’s Next for Heartland Queens?
Heartland Queens will now focus on their next match, which is an away fixture against Adamawa Queens FC. With the confidence gained from this huge win, Heartland will be looking to build on their momentum and continue their charge up the NWFL standings.
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