Excitement fills the air as Heartland Football Club and Abia Warriors Football Club gear up to engage in a thrilling pre-season friendly clash on Saturday. Football enthusiasts can witness the event unfold at the esteemed Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, the heart of Imo State.

This highly anticipated encounter serves as vital preparation for both teams ahead of the upcoming 2023–24 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season. As the new campaign looms closer, it is essential for these teams to fine-tune their strategies, evaluate squad strengths, and establish their winning mentality.

Heartland, fondly referred to as the Naze Millionaires, enters this friendly match after a series of challenging warm-up games that yielded no victorious outcomes. However, this setback does not dampen their spirits, as they recently secured promotion to the esteemed NPFL after emerging victorious in the intense 2023 Nigeria National League playoffs held in Asaba.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Abia Warriors has displayed commendable form during their pre-season preparations, clinching victory in the esteemed TICO Select pre-season tournament. This triumph has elevated their confidence as they eagerly await their clash with Heartland.

The release of the 2023–24 NPFL fixtures has added to the anticipation, with Heartland set to kick-start their campaign against Lobi Stars, while Abia Warriors prepares to face Niger Tornadoes.