Emmanuel Amuneke will have to wait longer for his first point in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after Heartland FC suffered a 1-3 defeat to Rivers United on matchday two.

In a showdown between former Super Eagles stars, Amuneke’s Heartland faced Finidi George’s Rivers United in Port Harcourt, coming up short in the contest at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.

Finidi George, Emmanuel Amuneke, head coaches of Rivers United and Heartland FC. Photo | SocreNigeria

Rivers United took an early lead just three minutes into the game, courtesy of new signing Taofeek Otaniyi, who capitalized on a well-timed assist from Aniekeme Okon.

However, Heartland found a lifeline in first-half stoppage time, equalizing through Christian Molokwu.

The second half saw Rivers United regain control, with Kabir Abdullahi netting twice to secure a comfortable 3-1 victory, leaving Finidi George’s side unbeaten after two games in the season.

Meanwhile, Amuneke’s Heartland, who opened their campaign with a 1-3 home loss to Enyimba, remain without a point.

They will now turn their attention to their upcoming home fixture against Katsina United, hoping to break their winless streak.