2025/2026 NNL Match Day 5 Review: Sunshine Stars Rally From Behind to Beat Heartland FC 3–1

Posted : 12 December 2025

Sunshine Stars FC delivered a spirited comeback performance on Match Day 5 of the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) season, securing a confidence-boosting 3–1 victory over Heartland FC at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure.

The win served as a timely response to their disappointing defeat away to Smart City FC.

Heartland shocked the home crowd early by taking the lead in the 6th minute. However, the Owena Whales gradually grew into the game and were rewarded shortly before halftime.

In the 38th minute, Bismarck Adeyosoye unleashed a brilliant long-range strike to restore parity, ensuring both sides went into the break level.

Sunshine Stars returned for the second half with renewed intensity, dominating possession and dictating the tempo of the match. While Heartland attempted to regain their advantage, the composed and well-organized Sunshine Stars backline stood firm.

The hosts eventually turned their dominance into goals. In the 71st minute, Gabriel Adepoju cleverly back-heeled Yusuf Olowoshile’s long throw into the net, giving Sunshine Stars a deserved 2–1 lead.

Substitute Opeoluwa Olufemi sealed the win in the 82nd minute with a calm finish, securing a comfortable 3–1 victory.

After the match, newly appointed Sunshine Stars head coach Olanrewaju Ale praised his players’ resilience despite the shaky start.

“I’m just coming into the team, and I’ve not fully introduced my philosophy yet. I worked with what I met on ground, and I thank God for the victory.

In just a few days of training, I observed the players were not quick in their reactions, so we worked on that, and you could see the result today. We will maintain this winning mentality and stay focused.”

Heartland FC manager and former Super Eagles winger Emmanuel Amuneke admitted that his side suffered from costly lapses.

“We scored early in the 6th minute, but later we conceded through mistakes. The same thing happened in the second half with the other two goals.

But I must commend Sunshine Stars. They showed they needed the points and worked hard for it.”

The result boosts Sunshine Stars’ bid to regain momentum in the NNL campaign, while Heartland will look to address their defensive frailties as the season progresses.

2025/2026 NNL Match Day 5 Review: Sunshine Stars Rally From Behind to Beat Heartland FC 3–1

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