Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho has shared his thoughts after scoring a dramatic late winner for Celtic F.C. against Dundee FC on Sunday, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian striker came up with the decisive moment late in the game, scoring in the 82nd minute to give Celtic a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Dens Park. It was his fourth goal of the season and his first since early October, ending a long wait in front of goal.
Iheanacho had not had an easy campaign. Injuries, especially a hamstring problem, kept him out for several weeks. But on this occasion, he showed his strength and sharpness when it mattered most. Coming off the bench, he replaced Tomas Cvancara and made an instant impact. He battled past a defender and calmly finished from a cross delivered by Marcelo Saracchi.
The goal proved crucial. It secured all three points for Celtic and kept their Scottish Premiership title hopes alive. The win moved them to within three points of leaders Heart of Midlothian, with the race for the title still very tight.
After the match, Iheanacho spoke to Celtic TV with joy and relief about his contribution. He said:
“It feels good to help the team to get the win today. We really showed character and we really worked hard today to get the win.”
“We showed character” – Iheanacho reflects on Celtic’s fight
Iheanacho, one of Nigeria’s finest goalscoring exports to Europe, also gave his view on how the game played out. Celtic started strongly and looked sharp in the first half, but they could not take all their chances.
“I think, especially in the first-half, we blew them away and had a few chances, but unfortunately it didn’t click.”
In the second half, Dundee responded and got back into the game through a penalty, setting up a tense finish. But Celtic kept pushing, and eventually, Iheanacho’s moment arrived.
“In the second-half they came back and scored the penalty, but at the end we got the points which is massive.”
While he was pleased with the team win, Iheanacho could not hide his delight at finally getting on the scoresheet. After months of struggling with criticism, fitness and time on the sidelines, he was happy to be back making a difference.
“I’ve been out for a while so it feels good to be back and to help the team get the win, so I’m happy.”
So far this season, the Nigerian forward has played 18 matches in all competitions, scoring four goals and providing one assist. While injuries slowed him down, he has remained an important option for Celtic, especially in key moments like this.
With the title race entering its final stage, this goal could prove to be a turning point. Celtic are still chasing the top spot, and if they are to lift the trophy, contributions like Iheanacho’s late winner may be remembered as decisive.