Heartland FC beat OISA FC 2-0 to clinch 2025 Imo FA Cup trophy

By Athan Agbakwuru, Owerri

Heartland FC of Owerri has triumphantly lifted the coveted trophy of ‘2025 Imo Football Association, FA, Cup’ after clearly beating Onwubiko International Soccer Academy, OISA FC, of Okpala in Ngor Okpala LGA in an entertaining final played Sunday at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.

The Naze Millionaires repeated the feat of winning the current title following two scintilating goals scored in the 67th and 74th minutes of the second half by Suraj Lawal who continuously threatened the goal mouth of the Okpala side.

Lawal and all the big names in Heartland FC used the second half of the match to prove that the Naze Millionaires currently playing in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, are no march to the underdogs but resilient Okpala side.

The Imo FA championship witnessed a contentious first half where OISA FC, zealously tried to showcase raw talent as well as stamina they tried and held the millionaires to a goaless draw, to the chagrin of Owerri fans of the state team.

However, the second half marked a turning point in the fortunes of Heartland FC whichad lost countless scoring chances in the first half of the Sunday encounter.

The red jersey players from the kick off the second half tactically and technically edged OISA FC boys out of the contest by firm ball control and avaricious possession all through the last 45,minutes and added time.

Highlight of the final of 2025 Imo FA Cup was the crowning of Heartland FC as the Imo champions as they received their medals and lifted the coveted Imo FA Cup trophy before a cheering mammoth crowd.

OISA FC which was playing its first final in the Imo FA Cup, after putting a valiant fight won the silver and their second place sees them qualify alongside Heartland to represent Imo State at the national level.

Meanwhile Heartland Queens FC won the female title a third consecutive time having emerged unchallenged in the tournament.