Heartland FC vs. Dino Sporting Club: The Mystery of Peters Afolayan’s Whereabouts



The football community has been abuzz following Heartland FC's social media announcement declaring their defender, Peters Afolayan, missing. However, a counter-statement from Dino Sporting Club, Afolayan’s parent club, shed light on the situation, accusing Heartland FC of breaching their loan agreement.

Loan Agreement Controversy
Dino Sporting Club CEO revealed that Afolayan’s loan to Heartland FC was formalized in 2022 under a two-year agreement, which stipulated an N500,000 loan fee. The club claims they never received the agreed payment but initially overlooked the breach, as Afolayan had reached a private compensation arrangement with Heartland FC.




The agreement allegedly expired at the end of the 2023/24 NPFL season. Dino Sporting Club asserts they informed Heartland FC of the expiration and that Heartland requested an extension due to Afolayan's pivotal role in the team.



Peters Afolayan’s Contribution to Heartland FC
Afolayan’s influence on Heartland FC has been undeniable. The defender, often serving as captain under Head Coach Emmanuel Amuneke, played over 1,350 minutes last season. He led the team in 14 appearances, scored once, and contributed to seven clean sheets. With Afolayan on the pitch, Heartland FC conceded only eight goals and lost just four matches.

Failed Negotiations and Disputes
Dino Sporting Club claims to have proposed a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the 2024/25 NPFL season and sent a representative to Owerri to finalize the agreement. However, negotiations reportedly turned hostile, with Amuneke allegedly making stern remarks to Dino Sporting Club officials.

Despite efforts to resolve the issue, Dino Sporting Club states that Heartland FC delayed further negotiations, began the season without finalizing the agreement, and failed to register Afolayan through FIFA’s Transfer Matching System (TMS).

The Recall
After multiple failed attempts to secure a renewed loan deal, Dino Sporting Club recalled Peters Afolayan mid-season. As of now, the player has returned to his parent club, leaving Heartland FC without one of their most crucial defenders.

Heartland FC has declined to comment on the matter, while Dino Sporting Club has yet to provide substantial proof of their claims. The situation raises questions about contract enforcement and transparency in Nigerian football.

For now, fans await further developments as both clubs navigate this contentious issue.

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