NPFL survival battle: Heartland target win over Akwa United to avoid relegation

By Wale Mustapha

Heartland FC will host fellow relegation-threatened side Akwa United in a high-stakes Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 38 clash at the Dan Anyiam Stadium on Sunday, with both teams fighting for top-flight survival.

Heartland, currently 17th on the NPFL table with 45 points from 37 matches, must secure a win to stand any chance of avoiding the drop to the Nigeria National League (NNL).

Their opponents, Akwa United, sit just one place below in 18th with 44 points, making the encounter a virtual relegation playoff.

With the stakes sky-high, Heartland have labeled the fixture as a “must-win battle.”

“The final battle! We face Akwa United with our sights on the maximum points,” the club posted on its official Facebook page, underlining the urgency of the task ahead.

Head coach Emmanuel Amuneke will be counting on home support and a spirited performance to steer the Naze Millionaires clear of relegation in what could be a defining match for the club’s NPFL status.

Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars have already been confirmed relegated, leaving the final drop slot to be decided between Heartland and Akwa United on Sunday.