Heartland goal keeper, Godwin Paul, made the difference for the Naze Millionaires saving her blushes to send the team through to the quarter finals at the expense of Dakkada FC.
After a barren first half with chances far in between. Coach Erasmus introduced Nonso Nzediegwu and Alfred Alexander .
Nonso's impact was instant giving his opposite number a run for his money, his cut back in the 59th minute presented a glorious opportunity for Ojonugwa who fluffed his lines.
The combination of Chukwujike Jacob Chibuike Nwaiwu and Nonso Nzediegwu finally paid off in the 89th minute when Chibuike powered home an unstoppable header for the curtain raiser. Heartland unfortunately caved in and conceded a penalty in the dying moments and were duly punished by Aniekan Ekpe who converted from the spot to send the game to the lottery of penalties.
Once beaten, they say twice shy. Godwin Paul who had kept Heartland in the game with some smart reflexes became the hero yet again, saving Aniekan Ekpe 's penalty to book a quarter final ticket for the Naze Millionaires .
Reacting after the game Heartland's Technical Adviser, Erasmus Onuh admitted that it was a difficult game for his side but promised a better outing in the quarter finals
"Actually, we were not at our best. The best that God has given us, we have used it, we are going back to re-strategize and I promise that we will move forward "
Heartland will battle Katsina United for a semi final berth at Illorin Kwara State on Wednesday 10th August 2022.