The 2026 edition of the Imo State FA Federation Cup is officially underway following the conclusion of the tournament draw, which sees top-tier side Kun Khalifat FC and defending champions Heartland FC among the notable contenders. The preliminary phase of the historic state competition is slated to kick off on Tuesday, March 24, as twenty-nine teams prepare to battle for the prestigious state crown and a chance to represent Imo on the national stage.
Heartland FC, currently competing in the Nigeria National League (NNL) and affectionately known as the “Naze Millionaires,” will initiate their title defense with a first-round fixture against non-league outfit Egbema FC. The encounter is scheduled to take place at the OISA Stadium in Ngor Okpala. As the current holders of the trophy, Heartland enters the competition as heavy favorites, aiming to replicate the form that saw them reclaim the championship last season.
In addition to the Naze Millionaires, the draw featured Kun Khalifat FC, a side currently navigating a competitive campaign in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). Their inclusion adds significant elite-level pedigree to a tournament field that comprises a diverse mix of professional, semi-professional, and grassroots teams. The opening rounds serve as a “fight to the finish,” with only the victors advancing to the later stages where the state’s most prominent footballing powers will clash for the ultimate prize.
The tournament’s structure ensures that every match carries high stakes from the outset. With the preliminary round acting as an immediate filter for the 29 registered participants, the path to the final will require both tactical discipline and physical endurance. As the “Pride of Imo,” Heartland FC will be looking to fend off challenges from both established league rivals and ambitious underdogs to maintain their dominance over the local football scene.
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