Emmanuel Amunike’s return to the Nigeria Professional Football League as Heartland FC's head coach ended in disappointment after his team suffered a 3-1 defeat at home to Enyimba FC, Soccernet.ng reports.
The loss took place at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, marking a tough debut for the former Golden Eaglets manager.
Full Time pic.twitter.com/mXsPRAMU7J
— Heartland FC (@HeartlandFC_ng) September 8, 2024
Heartland FC, who narrowly regained their spot in the NPFL this season, had high hopes for their campaign after being relegated last year.
The Owerri-based club benefited from the promotion slot forfeited by Beyond Limits Academy due to the league’s ownership rules, which prevent clubs with the same owner from playing in the top division.
Beyond Limits shares ownership with Remo Stars, who finished second last season, allowing Heartland to return.
Amunike, whose appointment was finalised just before the season’s start, was eager to impress on his home debut.
@HeartlandFC_ng 1-3 @EnyimbaFC
— Chuqudi photography (@TitanChinakwe) September 8, 2024
See how Enyimba fans & @OfficialAmunike react to the result. pic.twitter.com/7god5wHG4K
However, Enyimba, former NPFL champions, shattered those expectations in a thrilling eight-minute spell.
Heartland initially took the lead through Suraj, who netted in the 54th minute after a goalmouth scramble. The home crowd's joy was short-lived, as Enyimba came alive soon after.
In the 65th minute, substitute Ifeanyi Ihemekwele scored the equaliser with a stunning striker into the top corner, igniting a remarkable comeback. Jephta Clinton then delivered two clinical strikes in the 70th and 73rd minutes to seal a 3-1 victory for the Aba Elephants.
Enyimba coach Yemi Olanrewaju, reflecting on the win, said, “It is important we start on a good note. 37 games more as this one is done and dusted.”
His team will next travel to Mali for a CAF Confederation Cup preliminary match against Etoile Filante of Burkina Faso.
Olanrewaju, a former player for Kwara United, Ocean Boys, and Turkish club Kizitepe, has risen rapidly in his coaching career.
Appointed as Enyimba's permanent coach in August 2024, he had previously served as an assistant to Nduka Ugbade for Nigeria’s U17 team and was a key figure in Enyimba’s record ninth league title under Finidi George.
Match Day 1 Results:
Plateau United 1-0 Katsina United
Bendel Insurance 0-0 Rivers United
Sunshine Stars 3-0 Bayelsa United
Abia Warriors 0-2 Remo Stars
Heartland FC 1-3 Enyimba International
Nasarawa United 1-1 Shooting Stars
Kano Pillars 3-0 Ikorodu City FC
Kwara United 1-2 Niger Tornadoes
