Unbeaten Amuneke battles Super Eagles assistant in Nigeria’s biggest football showdown

Emmanuel Amuneke faces Rangers in the Southeast derby.

Unbeaten Amuneke battles Super Eagles assistant in Nigeria’s biggest football showdown

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:31 - 22.11.2024

Nigerian legend Emmanuel Amuneke will put his unbeaten run on the line in the Southeast derby in the Football League.

Nigerian football fans are gearing up for an electrifying encounter this weekend as Emmanuel Amuneke, a legendary figure in Nigerian football, faces off against Fidelis Ilechukwu, the assistant coach of the Super Eagles, in a highly anticipated Southeast derby. 

This NPFL match is set to take place in Owerri, where Amuneke's team, Heartland, will host the defending champions, Enugu Rangers on Saturday.

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Match Preview - Amuneke's Unbeaten Streak: 

Amuneke has successfully guided Heartland through a challenging start to the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League season, achieving an unbeaten run that includes three victories and one draw across four matches. 

This impressive form has revitalised the Naze Millionaires, positioning them to challenge for higher honours as they approach this crucial derby.

Emmanuel Amuneke was unveiled as Heartland's new boss before the start of the season.

Enugu Rangers, known as the Flying Antelopes, come into this fixture with their own strong momentum, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches, with two wins. 

Under Ilechukwu's stewardship, they currently sit fourth in the league standings with 19 points, just three points ahead of Heartland, who are ranked 10th on the log.

Rangers manager Fidelis Ilechukwu (Photo Credit: Rangers/X)

The rivalry between these two teams adds an extra layer of intensity to the match. Historically, Rangers have had the upper hand in this fixture, winning four out of their last five encounters, including their last visit to Owerri. 

This trend poses a big challenge for Amuneke, who will be looking to break the hoodoo and secure a vital victory for his side.

Amuneke's Heartland are now off relegation danger.

Both teams are expected to field strong line-ups, with key players on both sides looking to make impactful performances. 

For Heartland, maintaining their unbeaten streak is crucial not only for confidence but also for climbing up the league table. Conversely, Rangers will aim to assert their dominance and continue their title defence with another victory.