IMO SWAN MAKES CASE FOR HEARTLAND QUEENS AFTER FEDERATION CAMPAIGNS.
--Urges Gov Uzodinma to host them.
By Innocent Osuoha

The Imo SWAN has commended the Heartland Queens FC for her outstanding performance at the 2026 just concluded President Federation Cup and urges the State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, to appreciate the team by officially hosting the players in recognition of their historic achievement.
A Press release by the Body which was jointly signed by the Chairman, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, and the Secretary, Tunde Liadi, posited that,
although the Queens lost 6-5 on penalties to Nasarawa Amazons after a 1-1 draw in regulation time in the grand finale, the team's performance was courageous and worthy of celebration.
Imo SWAN commended the resilience and determination exhibited by the Coach Obi Ogbala's-led team throughout the competition.
According to the release, "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.
"They may not have won the trophy, but they have earned the admiration and respect of football lovers across the country and by that positively projected the State at the national level,the release submits.
"While appealing to the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, to receive and host the team as a gesture of appreciation and encouragement, the Sportswriters maintain that such recognition would boost the morale of the players and inspire them to achieving even greater successes."
As a way to further canvass for the Heartland Queens reception, Imo SWAN noted that Heartland Queens enjoyed the most impressive Federation Cup campaigns by a women's club from the South-East till date recalling that the Imo side while retaining the Imo State FA Cup title, beat the Dragon Fury Ladies 7-0 in the Round of 32 and Ahudiyannem Queens 4-0 in the Round of 16.
It went ahead to defeat Ibom Angels 4-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in the quarter-finals and overcame FC Robo Queens 2-1 in the semi-finals to reach their first-ever President Federation Cup final.
In all the Heartland Queens scored 16 goals and conceded only four throughout the competition, highlighting their impressive balance in attack and defence thereby becoming the first women's club from the South-East to reach the finals of the President Federation Cup.
Imo SWAN then reaffirmed its pride in the team's achievement and reassures the team of its continued support.