NNL: Crown FC coach Akande reflects on 2-2 draw against Heartland
Crown FC Technical Adviser Adejumo Fatai Akande has analyzed his team’s 2-2 draw against Heartland in the opening match of the 2026-27 Nigeria National League season. The Ajilete Warriors faced a challenging first half at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, where they conceded two goals before making a strong comeback in the second half. Goals from Osas Kelvin and Mustapha Olamilekan leveled the score for Crown FC, while Ekene Osiugwe and Johnathan Osondu scored for Heartland.
Following the match, Akande emphasized the need for his team to maintain focus and adjust their strategy to earn a point. “We needed more concentration and had to avoid distractions,” Akande said in comments to Crown FC media.
He noted the decision to switch to a 4-3-3 formation was critical for enhancing their attacking play. “We needed to control the game and make better use of the available spaces,” he explained.
Akande acknowledged that Crown FC had opportunities to secure a win but could not capitalize on them. “We had two or three chances to take the lead before Heartland scored, but we failed to convert them,” he said. “We should have scored first, but football can be unpredictable. In the second half, we managed to score two quick goals. When a team continually creates chances, there is always the possibility of converting one of them.”
