Kilmarnock 1-2 Celtic: Dream debut for Kelechi Iheanacho, nets late winner at Rugby Park

Kelechi Iheanacho announced himself in emphatic style at Celtic with a stoppage-time winner on his debut, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigerian forward, who only signed for the Scottish champions a few days ago, showed nerves of steel as he buried a 95th-minute penalty past goalkeeper Max Stryjek to send Celtic back to the top of the Premiership table.

It was a fairytale start for the 28-year-old, whose career has taken several unexpected turns in the past 12 months.

After leaving Leicester City, Iheanacho endured a turbulent spell at Sevilla before a disappointing loan at Middlesbrough, where he scored once and added teo assists.

With no future in Spain, his contract was terminated in August, opening the door for a reunion with Brendan Rodgers, the manager under whom he enjoyed his best form at Leicester.

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Rodgers wasted no time in convincing the striker to come to Scotland, and his decision already looks inspired.

The game itself was hard-fought. A goalless first half gave way to drama after the break, with Marcelo Saracchi providing the assist for Daizen Maeda’s opener in the 57th minute.

Celtic looked on course for three points until Kilmarnock’s 20-year-old midfielder David Watson struck an equaliser in the 83rd minute.

Rodgers turned to Iheanacho in the 70th minute, and the Super Eagles star seized his moment in added time.

When referee John Beaton pointed to the spot deep into stoppage time, Iheanacho stepped forward and coolly slotted home, sending the travelling fans into raptures.

Iheanacho 2-1
pic.twitter.com/j2oCQ4simU

— Celtic Goals (@CelticGoals_) September 14, 2025

The goal was his first in nearly six months, last scoring for Middlesbrough in a 2-1 win against Oxford United on 29 March.

More importantly, it restored Celtic to the summit of the Premiership, level on 13 points with Hearts but ahead on goal difference.