Sports
NNL: Amuneke Sure To Compete Strongly
Speaking after the draw, Amuneke expressed confidence in his team’s readiness, stressing that Heartland will compete strongly while respecting every opponent in the group.
“We have been expecting the draw and with what we have done since June when the team resumed rebuilding, we are ready to compete. It is a welcome development and we respect all the teams in our group because they deserve to be there,” the 1994 CAF Player of year told Tidesports source.
The former Super Eagles winger noted the significant progress made since the club began its restructuring process, highlighting the blend of new signings and retained players as a key strength ahead of the new season.
“Some of the players we used last season have left, and we have brought in new players. Our objective is to use this new crop, along with the retained ones, to achieve our goal of returning to the NPFL.
“The new players are adapting very well, and I am happy with their commitment. I can categorically say we are much better than last season because we’ve had more time to prepare and assess the team,” Amuneke said.
He further emphasized the role of Imo people in the journey back to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), urging continuous support for the state’s flagship football club.
“Heartland FC remains the team of Imo State. Imolites deserve the best, and we know they want the best for their club. They have the right to express their opinions, and we must listen. But above all, we call on them to stand by their team in good and bad times, because their support will drive us closer to our goal,” he added.
Heartland FC will begin their campaign in the 2025/26 NNL season with renewed determination to secure a swift return to the topflight when they face Crown FC of Ogbomosho in the first game on November 15th in Ogbomosho