Three-time champions Heartland qualify following semifinal victory in Imo FA Cup

Five-time Nigerian champions Heartland have qualified for the 2023 Nigerian Federation Cup following a 2-1 victory over its team B Heartland Comets, on Sunday.

The victory will see relegated Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side, not only attempt to win the Imo State FA Cup in a final later this week but also participate alongside 71 other sides in the national competition when it starts in April.

Heartland won the Nigerian cup in 1988 (as Iwuanyanwu Nationale), 2011 and 2012.

Sunday's fixture at the Dan Anyiam Stadium saw the Owerri club: who would participate in the Nigerian second division this season, field some of their best legs including the likes of Chidiebere Ajoku and Chukwuma Nwankwo.

Despite being the underdogs, Comets gave fans in Owerri a reason to celebrate as they scored the first goal of the game, after only five minutes.

Heartland eventually got their equalizer before the Naze Millionaires captain Ajoku gave them the winner in the 64th minute.

Other results from Nigeria's Southeastern region saw Nigerian giants Enyimba wrap up their campaign in the Abia State FA Cup by pummeling non-league side Ahudiya Nnem, 4-1 on Sunday.

In the Enugu State FA Cup, Rangers have been crowned champions after a stunning six-goal thriller with Nigeria League One (NLO) side Ingas FC.

The 2023 edition of the Federation Cup would see 72 clubs from 36 states and the FCT, participate in the competition after qualifying as their state cup winners and runners-up.