Iheanacho Celebrates Turkish Scoring Record, Targets Promotion

Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho has expressed pride in setting new scoring records in Turkey, insisting his immediate focus is on helping Bursaspor maintain their winning form and achieve their season ambitions.

The Nigerian forward spoke after scoring in Bursaspor’s 2-0 victory over Pendikspor on Monday, extending his scoring streak and strengthening his position as one of the club’s key attacking players this season.

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Addressing speculation about his future ahead of the winter transfer window, Iheanacho said he was focused on the present rather than potential moves away from the club.

“I am not going to say anything about the future until we get to the future. Right now, we are living in the moment, so we have to enjoy the moment now that we are living in it and make the most out of it and continue playing, winning, being at the top of the table, and scoring goals,” he said, according to Spor Bursa.

The former Celtic striker, who joined Bursaspor during the summer transfer window, reportedly took his tally to 15 goals and extended his scoring run to 11 consecutive matches with his latest strike.

His performances have also earned him a place in the club’s record books. He reportedly became the first Bursaspor player to score in nine successive matches, surpassing Brazilian forward Fernandao’s eight-match run during the 2014/15 season.

Iheanacho was also reported to have surpassed a Turkish league record for consecutive scoring appearances, previously attributed to Galatasaray legend Metin Oktay in the 1962/63 campaign and former Turkey international Saffet Sancaklı in 1995/96. The precise scope of the national record, however, requires independent verification.

The Nigerian international said he had not been aware of the milestone until it was brought to his attention.

“Before the game last week, I didn’t even know about the record before I was told. I am now in the record book, and I am happy to achieve that in Turkey; it is not easy,” Iheanacho said.

Reflecting on the challenge of maintaining his form, he added: “It was a tough game but I am now in the record book, so I am happy and proud to be in the record book and hopefully there will be more goals to come from me and the team.”

With his impressive performances attracting attention ahead of the January transfer window, Iheanacho has made it clear that his priority remains Bursaspor’s immediate objectives.

The striker will look to extend his scoring run and help the Turkish club push for promotion to the Turkish Super Lig.