Iheanacho scores, assists on Bursaspor debut

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Kelechi Iheanacho made a flying start to life in Turkey, scoring and providing an assist as Bursaspor began their 2026/27 campaign with a 2-0 away victory over Bodrum on Sunday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

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Iheanacho completed a free transfer to the Turkish second-tier club in July, ending months of speculation over his future after an impressive loan spell at Celtic last season.

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Despite being hampered by injuries, the Super Eagles forward scored nine goals and played an important role as Celtic secured a domestic double, prompting the Scottish champions to explore the possibility of extending his stay.

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However, negotiations eventually broke down, paving the way for Bursaspor to sign the former Leicester City striker on a three-year contract.

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The 29-year-old immediately showed what he could offer his new club, opening the scoring in the 27th minute with a simple finish before setting up a teammate on the stroke of half-time to double Bursaspor’s advantage.

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The victory puts Bursaspor second in the early Turkish second-tier standings as they begin their campaign with ambitions of securing promotion back to the Super Lig.

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Iheanacho had previously outlined his ambitions with the club, saying he was attracted by Bursaspor’s plans to return to the top flight and eventually compete in European competitions.

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“When I heard about their project, that they wanted to climb up to the Super Lig and also play in Europe, I said this is a big project and it’s very good for me to come and be involved and help the team,” he said on the club’s official YouTube channel.

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“So I asked my agent to make sure he does everything possible to make sure I come to Bursaspor.

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“We know what we want as a team. Collectively as a team, hopefully we achieve promotion — that is our main target before the individual target of a player.

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“My target is for us to go to the Super Lig.”

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