Heartland FC of Owerri secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan in a pulsating NPFL Matchday 24 clash at the Dan Anyiam Stadium. A late penalty secured all three points for the home side in a game filled with intense action and controversy.
The match began with Heartland pressing aggressively, preventing Shooting Stars from settling into their rhythm. The Naze Millionaires dominated possession early on, testing the visitors’ defense, but 3SC’s goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal made crucial saves to keep the score level.
Despite the resistance, Heartland eventually found the breakthrough in the 31st minute when Chukwuma Agor capitalized on a defensive lapse to fire home the opening goal. His strike sent the home fans into celebration as Heartland took control of proceedings.
Shooting Stars struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half, with Heartland maintaining their defensive discipline. The first 45 minutes ended with the home side leading 1-0, leaving the visitors with work to do after the break.
Coach Gbenga Ogunbote responded with attacking changes in the second half, introducing Adebayo Abayomi, Ekeson Okorie, and Mustapha Adams to boost Shooting Stars' offensive play. The changes had an immediate impact as 3SC played with greater urgency and intensity.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 81st minute when the referee awarded a penalty to the visitors after Mustapha Adams was fouled inside the box. Adams stepped up confidently and slotted the ball past Kelvin Ogunga, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to restore parity.
However, the drama was far from over as Heartland were awarded a controversial penalty in the dying moments of the game. The referee ruled that a Heartland player was fouled inside the box, sparking protests from the 3SC players and coaching staff.
🧐 REF WATCHHeartland FC vs. Shooting Stars SC:— Naifooty (@Naifooty) February 16, 2025
Mustapha Lawal initially saved John Bassey’s penalty, diving the right way, but the referee ordered a retake, ruling that Lawal had stepped off his line before the kick was taken. Bassey made no mistake the second time, converting to hand Heartland a 2-1 lead.
The goal sealed a crucial victory for Emmanuel Amuneke’s side, as Heartland secured a much-needed win to boost their survival hopes. Shooting Stars, despite suffering back-to-back defeats, remain second on the NPFL table with 40 points from 24 matches.
3SC will now shift their focus to their next fixture against Lobi Stars of Makurdi on Wednesday, as they aim to bounce back from their recent setbacks and keep their title ambitions alive.
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