2025 NWFL Match Day 3: Queens, Angels' oriental derby ends goalless in Owerri

Posted : 31 January 2025

Heartland Queens were left frustrated and pained as they were forced to a goalless draw by the visitors, Abia Angels, in a thrilling NWFL Premiership oriental derby clash at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on Wednesday, January 29.

Still in search of their first win of the season after two back-to-back defeats to Ekiti Queens and champions Edo Queens, the Owerri-based side dominated proceedings, pinning the Umuahia-based team deep into their own half for a large portion of the game.

However, their relentless attacking efforts were thwarted by an inspired performance from Abia Angels' goalkeeper, Osinachi Abani, who pulled off a series of crucial saves to deny the hosts any moment of celebration.

Heartland Queens’ shot-stopper, Uchenna Chukwu, had a relatively quiet evening, with Abia Angels struggling to pose any real attacking threat.

Former Heartland Queens forward Lucky Mary, now on loan at Abia Angels, found herself well-marshalled by center-back Nnenna Williams, who kept her in check and frustrated throughout the game.

Despite creating several goal-scoring opportunities, the Owerri mainstays failed to break the deadlock. Emmanuella James, Onyinyechi Kalu, captain Chimebere Opara, Chisom Henry, and Faith Samson all came close, only to be denied by the brilliance of Abia Angels' goalkeeper, Abani.

The second half saw a more balanced contest, but the Owerri Landladies continued to push forward ceaselessly in search of a breakthrough.

Coach Obi Ogbala made tactical switches, bringing in Tosin Ogundeko for Onyinyechi Kalu, while Chinwendu Orji and Chizoba Johnson also entered the fray in place of captain Chimebere Opara and Monica Matthew, respectively. Matthew, in particular, had caused panic in Abia Angels’ defensive third before her withdrawal.

Abia Angels responded with substitutions of their own but remained largely on the back foot as Heartland Queens maintained their attacking pressure.

Late in the game, lanky attacker Happiness Agboye was introduced to replace Emmanuella James in a final attempt to snatch all three points, but the visitors held firm to secure a valuable point on the road.

At the final whistle, Abia Angels left the pitch as the happier of the two sides, while Heartland Queens were left ruing missed opportunities in a game they largely dominated from start to finish.

The result means Heartland Queens are still searching for their first win of the ongoing season as they hope to bounce back in their next road outing against the 2024 Sheroes Cup winners and two-season experiencers, Remo Stars Ladies, in Ikenne, Ogun State.

2025 NWFL Match Day 3: Queens, Angels' oriental derby ends goalless in Owerri

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