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Yemi Olanrewaju and his Enyimba boys are ready for the head-to-head showdown with Super Eagles legend Emmanuel Amuneke.
Enyimba's newly appointed permanent manager, Yemi Olanrewaju, is gearing up for a baptism of fire as he faces off against Nigerian football legend Emmanuel Amuneke, who takes charge of Heartland FC in Owerri this Sunday.
The NPFL is set for an explosive start to the 2024/25 season, with a high-profile managerial clash taking centre stage on matchday one led by the former Super Eagles star.
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09:32 - 06.09.2024
Confident and Ready: 32-year-old who replaced former Super Eagles coach Finidi George set for first full season
The coach who replaced former Super Eagles boss Finidi George at Enyimba believes his Elephants are ready but wants his attackers to step up.
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Olanrewaju, who stepped into the shoes of former Super Eagles boss Finidi George at Enyimba, is not just preparing for his first full season at the helm of the People's Elephant; he's readying himself for a tactical battle against one of Nigeria's most respected football figures.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated Southeast derby, Olanrewaju expressed confidence in his team's preparation while acknowledging the challenge that lies ahead.
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"Coach Amunike would want to start on a good note too in the league," he told the club website, recognising the motivation of his opponent.
"But we are determined to give it our all and start very well, hoping for a positive result in Owerri."
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The young manager is under no illusions about the task at hand, adding, "We are eager to make a strong impression in the league, and we know that Heartland, led by Coach Amunike, will pose a formidable challenge."
This matchup is more than just a season opener; it's a clash of generations and styles. Olanrewaju, representing the new wave of Nigerian coaching talent, will pit his wits against Amuneke, a seasoned tactician with a wealth of experience both as a player and coach.
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For Heartland, known as the Naze Millionaires, Amuneke's appointment signals their intent to reclaim their position among Nigeria's footballing elite.
The former Barcelona player and African Footballer of the Year brings a pedigree that few in the NPFL can match.
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As Owerri prepares to host this titanic clash, Nigerians are anticipating what promises to be a tactical masterclass. Will Olanrewaju's youthful exuberance and fresh ideas triumph, or will Amuneke's experience and footballing wisdom prove decisive?
With both teams keen to start the season on a high note, this encounter could set the tone for their respective campaigns.
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