Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho enjoyed a dream start to life in Scotland as he scored a last-gasp penalty to hand Celtic a 2-1 victory over Kilmarnock in Sunday’s Scottish Premiership clash at Rugby Park.
Fans Stage Boycott
The match began amid tension, with sections of Celtic supporters boycotting the opening 12 minutes in protest against club decisions.
Maeda Breaks the Deadlock
Once play settled, Daizen Maeda gave the reigning champions the lead, glancing home Marcelo Saracchi’s superb cross to ease the early tension. The goal was just his second since April.
Late Drama at Rugby Park
Kilmarnock struck back in the 83rd minute when David Watson rose highest to head in from Greg Kiltie’s corner, sparking belief among the home fans.
The hosts piled on the pressure and looked the likelier winners until Celtic were handed a lifeline in stoppage time. A VAR review confirmed that Lewis Mayo had handled James Forrest’s goal-bound effort, leading to a penalty.
Iheanacho the Hero
Up stepped new signing Iheanacho, who joined Celtic as a free agent after the transfer deadline. The Nigerian forward kept his cool, smashing home the spot-kick with virtually the last kick of the game to seal all three points.
The dramatic finish not only gave Celtic a winning start after the international break but also announced Iheanacho as an instant fan favorite.
