NNL: Fatai Akande Hails Crown FC’s Mentality After Comeback Draw Against Heartland

Crown FC head coach Fatai Akande has praised his players’ mental strength and resilience after coming from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Heartland FC in their 2026/2027 Nigeria National League (NNL) season opener in Owerri.

Sports247 reports that the Heartland, managed by former Super Eagles international Emmanuel Amuneke, took a commanding 2-0 first-half lead through Ekene Osuigwe and Jonathan Osondu.

Read Also: Mobi Oparaku Kicks Off 2026/2027 NNL Season As Heartland And Crown FC Share Four-Goal Thriller

However, Crown FC responded strongly after the break, with goals from Osas Kelvin and Lekan Mustapha earning the visitors a valuable point at the Dan Anyiam Stadium.

Speaking after the encounter, Akande described his team’s comeback as evidence of their strong mentality, acknowledging that recovering from a two-goal deficit was never an easy task.

“I think it was a good mental character from the boys. Coming down from two goals down is not easy,” Akande said.

The Crown FC tactician also acknowledged the quality of the opposition, recognising Amuneke’s experience as a former international and the tactical organisation of his Heartland side.

“We knew Heartland’s coach is an ex-international and has a pattern of play with a good side,” he added.

Reflecting on the contrasting performances in both halves, Akande admitted that his team struggled before the interval but improved significantly after the restart.

“We were caught unaware in the first half. We lost the first half and we won the second half,” he concluded.

The result gives Crown FC an encouraging start to the new NNL campaign, while Heartland will be disappointed not to have converted their first-half advantage into a winning start.

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