Record-breaking goal my favourite in Bursaspor – Iheanacho

File photo: Kelechi Iheanacho

Bursaspor striker Kelechi Iheanacho has said the goal that broke the Turkish record for scoring in consecutive games is his favourite for the club, even though it was not his best finish.

Iheanacho joined Bursaspor as a free agent in the summer after failing to agree a new deal with Scottish Premiership champions Celtic. The Nigeria international has been in the form of his life since the move, scoring in 12 consecutive matches to take his tally to 16 goals.

On October 15, he scored against Muğlaspor to net in 10 consecutive games, breaking the record jointly held by Galatasaray legends Metin Oktay and Saffet Sancaklı.

Speaking to Bursaspor’s official YouTube channel, Iheanacho said the record goal meant the most to him because of its historical significance.

“There are a lot of fantastic goals, but to be fair, the one that broke the record was outstanding for me,” he said.

“It was not really a sweet goal, but it was outstanding because it was the record-breaking goal.”

The former Manchester City player said his best goal in terms of quality was the one scored from Ivan Saranic’s assist.

“That assist was incredible, as were my turn and the finish. That goal is my best because of the pass, the run I made, the turn, and the finish. That goal was outstanding,” he said.

“But if you want to put them in alphabetical order, the record-breaking goal would come first, and the highlight of the goals would be that one.”

Iheanacho scored that goal against Esenler Erokspor on September 13, beating a defender with a Cruyff turn before finishing at the near post.

The 30-year-old has 16 goals and three assists in 12 appearances this season. He extended his scoring run to 12 league games in a 4-2 win over Keçiörengücü on Sunday, and was substituted afterwards with a minor knock. Coach Mustafa Er said it was a precaution.

The win lifted Bursaspor to the top of the 1. Lig table on 28 points from 12 matches. They host Bandırmaspor on Saturday.