Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho has strengthened his case for a regular place in Nigeria’s national team after extending his remarkable goalscoring streak in Turkey.
The former Leicester City forward scored his 16th league goal of the season as Bursaspor defeated Keçiörengücü 4-2 on Sunday, October 25, taking his scoring run to 12 consecutive league appearances.
Iheanacho’s impressive form has renewed discussions about his place in the Super Eagles squad under head coach Eric Chelle, particularly ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming international assignments.
Iheanacho strikes again in thrilling encounter
Bursaspor faced a difficult opening period after an own goal by Emirhan Başyiğit handed Keçiörengücü the lead in the seventh minute.
Amine Boutrah restored parity eight minutes later before Lewis Baker put Bursaspor ahead in the 35th minute.
However, Oğuzcan Çalışkan equalised for the home side shortly before half-time, leaving both teams level at 2-2 heading into the break.
Iheanacho then delivered the decisive breakthrough five minutes into the second half, scoring in the 50th minute to restore Bursaspor’s advantage.
Lincoln sealed the victory in the 66th minute, ensuring that the visitors secured all three points.
The result further underlined Iheanacho’s importance to Bursaspor, where he has established himself as one of the most productive forwards in the Turkish second division.
Nigerian striker extends remarkable record
The 30-year-old has now scored in 12 successive league appearances, surpassing his previous run of 11 consecutive matches.
His latest goal also took his tally to 16 for the campaign, placing him at the top of the Turkish 1. Lig goalscoring chart.
The achievement represents a significant turnaround for Iheanacho, who endured difficult spells at Sevilla and Celtic before rediscovering his scoring touch in Turkey.
His consistent performances have also strengthened calls for him to receive more opportunities with the national team.
Pressure grows on Eric Chelle
Iheanacho recently returned to the Super Eagles setup after a prolonged absence and featured in Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia on October 6.
He marked that appearance with a goal in the entertaining 3-3 draw, further demonstrating his ability to contribute at international level.
Despite his return, competition for attacking positions remains intense, with Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams and other forwards competing for places in Chelle’s squad.
With Nigeria preparing for further 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures, Iheanacho’s club performances could become an important consideration for the coaching staff.
Although the striker has not publicly demanded a starting position, his goalscoring record continues to make a compelling argument for greater involvement.
For now, Iheanacho appears determined to let his performances do the talking as he pushes to establish himself once again as a key figure in the Super Eagles attack.
