Promotion-Chasing Akwa United, Heartland FC Set for Crunch Pre-Season Test in Uyo
Akwa United and Heartland FC will intensify their build-up for the 2025/26 Nigeria National League (NNL) season when they clash in a crunch pre-season friendly on Saturday, September 20, at the Uyo Township Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 1:00 PM.
The fixture will serve as Coach Paul Offor’s first Grade A test since his appointment as Akwa United’s manager. He is expected to use the game to evaluate his squad, experiment with tactical options, and sharpen team chemistry ahead of the campaign.
Both sides, who were relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) last season, will compete in different groups of the Southern Conference when the new NNL season begins on November 8.
Their recent NPFL encounters ended evenly matched, with Akwa United winning 2-0 in Uyo, while Heartland secured a 2-1 victory in Owerri on the final day of the 2024/25 season.
Heartland, led by former Super Eagles winger Emmanuel Amuneke, has openly declared its ambition of returning to the top flight. Amuneke recently assured that the Imo State government-owned club is fully prepared to battle for promotion back to the NPFL.
Saturday’s test in Uyo promises to be a strong indicator of both teams’ readiness for the tough campaign ahead.
