Kelechi Iheanacho delivered a standout performance on Thursday, September 3, scoring a brace to guide Bursaspor to a resounding 4-0 victory over Istanbulspor at the Timsah Arena in Bursa, Turkey. The Nigerian forward's goals bring his league tally to six goals and two assists in just five appearances since joining the Turkish second-division club in the summer transfer window, according to Transfermarkt.
The former Leicester City striker opened the scoring late in the first half, curling a precise shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the penalty area. He completed his double in the final 13 minutes, capitalizing on a poorly cleared corner to fire home from inside the box, as reported by beIN Sports.
Dominant Display Seals Bursaspor's Win
Bursaspor's victory was built on a well-rounded team effort. Halil Akbunar added the second goal shortly after the restart, and an own goal from Duran Sahin in the 67th minute put the hosts firmly in control before Iheanacho sealed the rout. The result underscores Bursaspor's strong start to the season as they chase promotion back to the Turkish Super Lig.
The 28-year-old Super Eagles forward has hit the ground running, and his numbers are impossible to ignore. With six goals and two assists in five league games, Iheanacho has established himself as one of the club's top performers this season, a form that is drawing attention both domestically and internationally.
Pressure Mounts on Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle
Iheanacho's impressive club form comes at a critical time for the Super Eagles. Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to name his squad for Nigeria's opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixtures later in September. According to CAF Online, Nigeria's Group L includes Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and co-hosts Tanzania, with the first match scheduled for September 23 in Uyo against Madagascar.
Iheanacho was notably left out of the Super Eagles' final squad for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, where Nigeria claimed the bronze medal. His current scoring spree is widely seen as a direct challenge to Chelle to reconsider his selection ahead of the qualifying window.
Strong Case for International Return
Six goals in five games in any league is a difficult argument to dismiss. Iheanacho appears to be doing everything within his power to force his way back into international reckoning, and his performances are likely to weigh heavily on Chelle's squad announcement. The upcoming qualifiers could define Nigeria's path to the 2027 tournament, making every selection decision crucial.
Bursaspor, buoyed by their striker's form, will be hoping the momentum carries through the rest of the season as they push for a return to the top flight of Turkish football. Earlier, Legit.ng reported on Iheanacho's impactful performance in the Turkish 1. Lig, where he scored the decisive goal against Iğdır FK, further highlighting his determination and talent as he aims to lead his new club to promotion.
