Barcelona-trained Amuneke exposed at home by 10-man 'baby of the league' even with 12 added minutes

Super Eagles legend Emmanuel Amuneke continues to drop valuable points in the Football League after the latest setback.

Super Eagles legend Emmanuel Amuneke faces mounting pressure after his Heartland FC side dropped valuable points in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following a disappointing 1-1 draw against newly promoted Ikorodu City. 

The match in Owerri saw Amuneke’s team struggle to capitalise on their numerical advantage after Ikorodu was reduced to ten men late in the game on Thursday.

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In a clash that was expected to boost Heartland's standings, the Naze Millionaires were forced to come from behind after Salaudeen Taiwo gave the visitors a shock lead in the first half. 

Heartland equalised in the second half through Chukwuma Agor, but despite having 12 minutes of added time, after the fourth official indicated six additional minutes and a one-man advantage after Ajeyigbe Toheeb was sent off for two yellow cards, they failed to secure a win.

Taiwo wheels off after putting Ikorodu City in front in Owerri. (Photo Credit: Ikorodu City/X)

This latest setback means Amuneke, who has already lost to Finidi George this season, has managed just one victory in seven matches this season, leaving Heartland languishing in 15th place on the league table with only six points—barely above the relegation zone on goal difference. 

The draw also keeps Ikorodu City at the bottom of the table, still seeking their first away win of the season.

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

Amuneke, who enjoyed a celebrated playing career with Barcelona and the Nigerian national team, has struggled to replicate that success as a coach since taking over at Heartland. 

The former U-17 World Cup-winning coach faces increasing scrutiny from fans and critics alike as he attempts to turn around the fortunes of a club that has seen better days.

Ikorodu City and Heartland shared the spoils in WK7.

As Amuneke reflects on this latest disappointment, he will need to regroup and find a way to motivate his players ahead of their next fixtures. 

With the pressure mounting, fans are keen to see if he can steer Heartland away from relegation and back to their former glory.