Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expressed delight after Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho scored a dramatic late winner on his debut, helping the Hoops secure a 2-1 victory away at Kilmarnock on Sunday.
The 28-year-old forward, who completed a move to Celtic on deadline day, wasted no time in making his mark in Scottish football. Introduced from the bench for the final 20 minutes at Rugby Park, Iheanacho held his nerve to convert a stoppage-time penalty, sending the travelling fans into raptures and Rodgers into celebration on the touchline.
Rodgers full of praise
Speaking after the match, Rodgers praised Iheanacho’s composure and suggested the goal could spark a revival for a player who has endured mixed fortunes in recent years.
“I’m delighted for Kels because he’s a player who really feeds off confidence and the backing of coaches and supporters,” Rodgers told Celtic’s official website. “That goal will be very important for him. He showed great composure today, just as he did the last time I saw him take a decisive penalty back when we won the Community Shield at Wembley.”
Rodgers’ reference was to Leicester City’s 2021 triumph over Manchester City, when Iheanacho’s late penalty secured silverware for the Foxes. For the Celtic boss, Sunday’s strike carried a similar sense of authority.
A difficult year behind him
Iheanacho’s move to Glasgow followed a disappointing spell at Sevilla, where he managed only three goals in 15 appearances before the club terminated his contract earlier this month. His struggles in Spain had cast doubts over his ability to rediscover the sharpness that once made him one of the Premier League’s most promising young strikers.
But the Nigerian’s determination to seize a fresh start was evident against Kilmarnock. Though he had limited touches after replacing Kyogo Furuhashi, he positioned himself smartly in attack and showed no hesitation when handed the responsibility from the spot in the 94th minute.
For Celtic supporters, his instant impact offered a glimpse of what he could bring to a team chasing another Scottish Premiership title and eager to make strides in Europe.
A timely boost for Celtic
The victory keeps Celtic’s momentum intact after the international break and adds another attacking option to Rodgers’ arsenal. With Kyogo, Daizen Maeda, and Liel Abada already in the mix, Iheanacho’s arrival brings depth and experience.
Rodgers acknowledged that it will take time for the striker to regain full sharpness, but stressed that his presence will lift the squad.
“He’s still building up fitness and adapting to our style, but moments like this accelerate that process,” Rodgers said. “When a player comes into a new club and scores the winner on his debut, it creates a bond immediately. The supporters will have taken to him, and that energy can push him on.”
Iheanacho’s reaction
The player himself admitted he was thrilled to mark his debut with such a decisive contribution.
“It’s an amazing feeling to score and help the team win,” Iheanacho told reporters. “I just wanted to give my all in the minutes I had. I’m grateful to the manager and my teammates for the support, and of course to the fans who made me feel at home straight away. Hopefully this is just the beginning.”
Looking ahead
Celtic now turn their attention to a midweek League Cup tie before resuming league duties at home. Rodgers is expected to rotate his squad, but Iheanacho’s performance has already sparked calls for him to be handed more minutes.
For the Nigerian, the debut goal may be more than just a match-winning strike—it could be the confidence boost that reignites his career. If Sunday is any indication, Celtic may have found a striker capable of delivering in big moments once again.
