Heartland FC’s new head coach Emmanuel Amuneke faced a challenging start to his tenure, with his team suffering a 3-1 defeat to arch-rivals Enyimba in today’s NPFL Oriental derby. Despite taking an early second-half lead through Lawal Suraju in the 54th minute, Heartland couldn’t hold off a resurgent Enyimba, who scored three quick goals to claim victory at the Dan Anyiam Stadium.
The match marked a significant moment for both clubs, especially with the high stakes attached to this historic Oriental derby. Suraju’s goal, which came off a precise counter-attack, sparked hope for the home crowd. However, Enyimba, the reigning NPFL champions, demonstrated their dominance and tactical superiority, quickly bouncing back. The turning point came in the 65th minute when Ifeanyi Ihemekwele netted an equalizer, taking full advantage of a defensive lapse by Heartland.
Clinton Jephta then turned the tide entirely in Enyimba’s favor with two clinical strikes within three minutes, first volleying a beauty in the 70th minute and adding a composed finish in the 73rd. The defeat not only spoiled Amuneke’s debut but also extended Enyimba’s unbeaten run against Heartland FC in league competitions to over three years.
Enyimba’s coach, Yemi Olarenwaju, expressed satisfaction post-match, praising his team’s resilience and stating, “This win sets the tone for the season. We’re focused on defending our title, and it starts with tough games like this.”
Meanwhile, Amuneke, a former Nigeria international with a proven coaching pedigree, will look to regroup and find answers before Heartland’s next fixture. The fans will be eager to see improvements as the team adapts to his leadership and tactical philosophy.
- Heartland FC’s last win against Enyimba came in 2021, making this loss even more painful for the Owerri-based club.
- Enyimba dominated the possession stats with 58% and recorded more dangerous attacks, reflecting their superiority throughout the match.
- Amuneke, appointed just a week before the match, faces a tough schedule ahead, as Heartland prepares to face title contenders Plateau United in their next game.
