NNL: Crown FC coach Akande reflects on 2-2 draw against Heartland

Crown FC Technical Adviser Adejumo Fatai Akande has reflected on his team’s 2-2 draw against Heartland in the opening game of the 2026-27 Nigeria National League, NNL, season.

The Ajilete Warriors recovered from a difficult first half at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in which they conceded twice, to produce an improved second-half performance, with Osas Kelvin and Mustapha Olamilekan finding the net.

Ekene Osiugwe and Johnathan Osondu scored for Heartland FC.

Akande said his team had to concentrate and change their tactics to secure the point in the game.

“We needed more concentration and had to avoid distractions,” Akande told Crown FC media.

“We also needed to take control of the game and make better use of the available spaces. That was why we changed to a 4-3-3 formation, because we needed to attack and score goals,” Akande explained.

Akande also believed that his team had the chances to secure the maximum points in the game but failed to convert them.

“We had two or three chances to take the lead before Heartland scored, but we failed to convert them.

“We should have scored first, but football can be unpredictable. In the second half, we were able to score two quick goals. When a team continues to create chances, there is always the possibility of converting one of them,” he added.