Obi Ogbala admits to Heartland Queens blending despite slow start to campaign

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The head coach of Heartland Queens, Obi Ogbala says his team is blending after a 0-0 draw with Abia Angels in the matchday three of the 2024/25 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership on Wednesday.

The draw was the host’s first point of the league campaign after losses in their first two games.

A 1-0 loss to Ekiti Queens was followed by a 2-1 defeat in the hands of holders, Edo Queens.

“Actually it’s a game of football. Fine three games without win. We are still blending. I think I have almost the entire team being new players,” Ogbala told pressmen after the match.

“The team philosophy we are still blending. I am now seeing the picture and know how to use the players in subsequent matches.”

It hasn’t been a good start for the Owerri based side which qualified for the NWFL Premiership Super Six Playoffs last season for the first time in the club history.

With a goal scored and three conceded after three games, the coach hopes to bolster the squad to get their scoring boots on ahead of their next game.

“I will approach the next game one at a time. This one is gone. Three matches has gone. Will go back to work on the areas I observed. If Abia Angels can come here and pick a draw, Heartland can equally go elsewhere and win.” He added.

“We have new bunch of players. In the area of goal scoring, we are going to give it seriously practice to be able to convert our chances when necessary.

“They [fans] should be happy because today the girls up their game irrespective of the scoreline. The fans need not to be unhappy. The team is going to make them to be happy. We are coming up. It is a marathon. We still have other matches to play. They shouldn’t get worried as the players will put smiles on their faces.”

Up next for Heartland Queens is an away clash with joint group leaders, Remo Stars Ladies in Ikenne, Ogun state on February 5, 2025.