Iheanacho nets first Boro goal in comeback win.
Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho scored his first goal for Middlesbrough, helping to spark a comeback in their 2-1 win over Oxford United and boosting their hopes of securing a Sky Bet Championship play-off spot, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
The 28-year-old Nigerian forward netted just three minutes into the second half, leveling the score after Michal Helik’s opener for Oxford. Iheanacho finished powerfully and confidently after latching onto a superb delivery from Samuel Iling-Junior, which was misjudged by Ciaron Brown.
The goal marked Iheanacho’s first league strike in nearly 18 months, ending a challenging goal drought that had followed his departure from Leicester City last summer. The former Leicester City striker had struggled for form at both Sevilla and Middlesbrough, failing to score in seven league appearances since joining on loan from the Spanish side in January.
Iheanacho’s relief was clear as he celebrated with his teammates, who encouraged him to savor the moment after his well-deserved goal. The Nigeria international had almost scored earlier in the match when his shot hit the crossbar after lifting the ball over goalkeeper Jamie Cumming.
The equalizer seemed to energize Iheanacho, who grew more influential as the match progressed. He later played a key role in setting up substitute Morgan Whittaker, who crossed for Tommy Conway to head towards goal, forcing a save from Cumming.
Middlesbrough completed their comeback with 10 minutes to go when Brazilian defender Neto Borges scored his first goal for the club. The goal came after Iling-Junior, who had been excellent down the left, exchanged passes with Aidan Morris before delivering a low cross for Borges to finish beyond Cumming.
This victory marked Middlesbrough’s third consecutive home league win, their first such streak since October 2023. They are now level on points with sixth-placed West Brom, with seven games remaining in the season, while Coventry sit just two points ahead.
For Iheanacho, fans will hope this goal marks the start of a productive run as Middlesbrough pushes for a strong finish to their Championship play-off campaign.
