Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho netted the decisive goal as Bursaspor secured a 1-0 home victory over Iğdır FK in the second round of the Turkish 1. Lig on Saturday. The Nigerian forward broke the deadlock in the 16th minute, converting an early chance to give his side a lead they would defend for the remainder of the match.
Iheanacho’s Impact in Bursaspor’s Perfect Start
According to Turkish outlet Yenicag Gazetesi, this was Iheanacho’s second goal in as many league appearances for Bursaspor. His contributions have been decisive in both of the club’s victories to open the season, following a 1-0 away win over Bodrum FK in the first matchday. With six points from two games, Bursaspor currently sit third in the 1. Lig table.
The home side’s task was made easier in the second half when Iğdır FK’s Alperen Selvi was shown a red card in the 73rd minute, reducing the visitors to ten men. With a numerical advantage and the lead already secured, Bursaspor managed the remainder of the match comfortably to claim all three points.
Iheanacho’s Ambitions at Bursaspor
Iheanacho’s arrival at Bursaspor came after the club won the TFF Second League last season, earning promotion to the 1. Lig. The club is now chasing a second consecutive promotion that would return them to the Turkish Super Lig.
In his first interview after joining, the former Leicester City and Manchester City forward explained his decision to move to the Turkish club, as reported by BBC Sport.
“To be fair, Bursaspor is a big club in Turkey and I had heard that they had previously won the Turkish Super Lig. When I heard about their project, that they wanted to climb up to the Super Lig and also play in Europe, I said that this is a big project and it's very good for me to come and be involved and help the team.”
The 28-year-old added that he actively pushed for the move to happen.
“So I asked my agent to make sure he does everything possible to make sure I come to Bursaspor. My target is for us to go to the Super Lig.”
Financial Details and Season Outlook
In a related development, Legit.ng reported that Iheanacho signed a three-year contract with Bursaspor, guaranteeing him a salary of €1.4 million per year. The move represents not just a financial decision but a pivotal step as he enters a new league with hopes of revitalising his career.
Two games into the new season, Iheanacho has already made a significant impact, with back-to-back goals central to Bursaspor’s perfect start. The Nigerian international looks settled and sharp in his new surroundings, and he will aim to sustain this form as Bursaspor push for a return to the Turkish Super Lig.
