Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho could not hide his excitement after scoring a dramatic winner on his debut for Scottish champions Celtic against Kilmarnock.
The Nigerian forward stepped up in stoppage time to bury a penalty, handing Brendan Rodgers’ side a crucial 2-1 victory.
Speaking after the game, Iheanacho revealed his emotions, the pressure of the moment, and the role Captain Callum McGregor played in his historic goal.
Kelechi Iheanacho on Celtic Debut, Winning and Pressure
Reflecting on the last-gasp strike, Iheanacho told the club’s official website:
“I’ll feel really, really good. It’s the last kick of the game, and I got to take it, so I’m really happy.”
The forward, who joined Celtic on a free transfer in September, admitted the atmosphere and tension made the moment even more special.
“I’m happy for the opportunity, and I could see how the fans feel after that goal. It was a really important goal, so I’m happy.”
He added that the pressure of the penalty was real, but his composure paid off.
“It’s a great feeling, but at the same time, there’s a lot of pressure as well with the spot-kick. I just took it with composure, and we won the three points today, which is massive, and hopefully there are many more to come.”
Permission, Composure, and a Historic First Goal
Iheanacho also disclosed how team captain Callum McGregor allowed him to step up in the dying seconds.
“Three points, massive. I asked the skipper to let me take the penalty, and he said it was fine,” Iheanacho told BBC Sport.
The goal was not only vital for Celtic’s unbeaten league run but also historic. With that strike, Iheanacho became just the second Nigerian to score for the Hoops, following in the footsteps of Efe Ambrose.
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