Kelechi Iheanacho enjoyed a dream start to life at Bursaspor, scoring and providing an assist on his debut as the Turkish side opened their Trendyol 1. Lig campaign with a 2-0 victory over Bodrum FK on Sunday.
The Nigerian striker was handed a starting role in attack and wasted no time making his presence felt, opening the scoring in the 27th minute to put Bursaspor in front.
Iheanacho continued to cause problems for the hosts and turned provider just before half-time, setting up fellow new signing Lincoln to double Bursaspor’s advantage and put the visitors firmly in control.
The 29-year-old was substituted in the 74th minute, making way for Baran Basyigit after an impressive individual display as Bursaspor held on to secure all three points and begin their campaign on a winning note.
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Bursaspor will return to action on Saturday when they welcome Igdir FK in their first home game of the season, while Bodrum FK will look to respond when they travel to face Istanbulspor.
Iheanacho joined Bursaspor as a free agent following an impressive 2025/26 campaign with Scottish champions Celtic. The forward has rediscovered his form this year after an inconsistent 2025, scoring seven goals and providing one assist in 15 appearances.
Iheanacho’s impressive debut represents an encouraging beginning to his new chapter in Turkey, with the Nigerian aiming to help Bursaspor secure promotion to the Turkish Super Lig.
The striker’s return to form could also boost his chances of earning a recall to the Super Eagles, particularly with head coach Eric Chelle continuing to monitor options in attack.
Speaking after Bursaspor’s victory, Iheanacho expressed his delight with the team’s performance but insisted that their ambitions extend far beyond the opening-day result.
“I’m really happy with the start of the season. The first game is always very hard but as a group we did really well. I’m happy with how we performed as a team.”
He added: “We’re not at the end of the season, this is the start of the season. For me, the target is for the team to achieve great things this season. For us to be up there, win trophies, qualify for Europe for the next season.”
With a goal, an assist and three points already secured, Iheanacho could hardly have asked for a better beginning to his Bursaspor career.
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