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Iheanacho targets Süper Lig promotion with table-topping Bursaspor

By Naija Breaking Newsroom1 min read
The gist
  • Kelechi Iheanacho has scored 16 goals and set up three more in 12 league games for Bursaspor.
  • Bursaspor lead Turkey's TFF First League with 28 points from 12 matches.
  • The Nigerian striker says the club's aim is to win the title and return to the Süper Lig.

Kelechi Iheanacho has made a flying start to life in Turkey, and the Nigerian striker says the goal is simple: take Bursaspor back to the Süper Lig.

The 30-year-old has scored 16 goals and provided three assists in 12 league appearances for Mustafa Er's side, according to reports from Turkey. That form has helped Bursaspor to the top of the TFF First League table with 28 points from 12 matches.

Speaking to Turkish outlet Fanatik, Iheanacho admitted the start has surprised even him. "I didn't expect to start this well," he said, adding that he wants to keep delivering as the season goes on.

Why it matters for Nigerian fans

Iheanacho remains one of the Super Eagles' most recognisable forwards, and a strong club season keeps him sharp for national duty. For Nigerian supporters who follow their players abroad, his scoring run is one of the brighter stories of the European season so far.

He also described the Turkish second tier as no easy ride. "The First League is a really good and tough league. Incredible players are playing there," he said.

Beyond promotion, Iheanacho has his eye on a bigger legacy at the club known as the Green Crocodiles. "Becoming a legend of a great club like Bursaspor would be a great honour for me and my family," he said.

Bursaspor's next test comes on Saturday, when they host Bandırmaspor at the Centennial Atatürk Stadium. Iheanacho will be hoping to add to his tally and keep the promotion push on track.

What happens next

Bursaspor sit top of the table, but the First League season is long and the race for promotion is far from settled. Every goal from Iheanacho now carries extra weight as the club chases a return to Turkey's top flight.

Sources

This story draws on reporting by:

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