You have nine squares to replace.....sew a strip that matches your squares...I count about 9...sew the entire strip.
I would unsew that portion of the strip..the nine squares...along with the quilting. I know. lots of trouble...but if you are entering it in a show, then you need to do this. Then hand sew the strip on one side, RST..not through batting, then flip and hand sew the ends and other side. Then turn your quilt over and quilt in the holes from your quilting.
that is what I would do...but I am a perfectionist...what can I say. Best wishes.