2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 22: Amuneke relieved, as Heartland FC secures landslide victory over Rivers United

Posted : 04 February 2025

It was a tale of contrasting fortunes on Sunday as former teammates in the Super Eagles clashed on the sidelines during the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 22 fixture between Heartland FC of Owerri and Rivers United FC of Port Harcourt.

While former African Player of the Year, Emmanuel Amuneke, sat on the technical bench as the coach of the Naze Millionaires, his compatriot and former teammate, Finidi George, was on the opposing side as the manager of the visiting Pride of Rivers.

However, it was a triumphant evening for the struggling Heartland FC, as their victory over third-placed Rivers United FC was a welcome relief for Amuneke, who has been striving to elevate his team to the desired level.

On Sunday at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, the Naze Millionaires secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Rivers United.

The win against the title-chasing Pride of Rivers marked Heartland FC's seventh victory of the season in 22 matches, lifting them to 9th place with 29 points. This means that in their last five matches, Heartland FC has lost only once, recording two wins and two draws.

With the match set in motion, Amuneke's men ensured they dominated proceedings from the start, with their attacking trio causing problems for the Rivers United defense while maintaining 55% ball possession.

Heartland's pressure paid off in the 32nd minute when Chukwudi Nworgu scored the opening goal with a well-placed header.

Rivers United struggled to create scoring opportunities in the first half, as Heartland's defense remained solid.

The visitors' best chance came just before halftime, but their effort was comfortably saved by Heartland goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa.

Heartland doubled their lead in the 65th minute through a stunning strike from Emmanuel Adachi. The midfielder collected a pass on the edge of the box and unleashed a powerful shot that left the Rivers United goalkeeper with no chance.

The victory moved Heartland FC up to 9th place in the NPFL standings, while Rivers United remained in third place.

Heartland's coach, Hassan Abdallah, praised his team's performance, saying, "We played well today and deserved the three points."

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 22: Amuneke relieved, as Heartland FC secures landslide victory over Rivers United

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