Kelechi Iheanacho finally got off the mark for Middlesbrough, scoring his first goal for the club in their crucial 2-1 victory over Oxford United at the Riverside Stadium.
The Nigerian striker, who joined Boro on loan from Sevilla, had endured a frustrating seven-game goal drought but played a decisive role in helping Michael Carrick’s side strengthen their playoff push.
Middlesbrough dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half, with Oxford’s resilient defense making life difficult.
The visitors took the lead in the 38th minute when Boro failed to clear Will Vaulks’ long throw, allowing Michal Helik to lash a precise shot into the bottom-left corner.
Iheanacho almost responded instantly, latching onto Finn Azaz’s clever through ball and unleashing a powerful effort that rattled the crossbar—agonizingly close to his long-awaited breakthrough.
Iheanacho Strikes to Spark Boro Comeback
Just three minutes into the second half, Iheanacho finally got his moment. Samuel Iling-Junior sent a low ball across the six-yard box, and the Nigerian forward was perfectly placed to sweep it home, ending his goal drought and bringing Middlesbrough level.
It was his first goal in English football since 21 October 2023 (525 days)—one that not only lifted the crowd but reignited Boro’s fight for a playoff spot.
READ MORE:Super Falcons striker Rinsola Babajide inspires Tenerife to victory in Liga F
Kelechi Iheanacho slots his first goal in English football since netting for Leicester City in the Championship in October 2023. Photo credit: Getty images
With the equalizer fueling their momentum, Boro pushed for a winner. The breakthrough came in the 80th minute when Iling-Junior turned provider again, this time setting up Neto Borges, who produced a stunning backheel finish to complete the turnaround.
Victory Boosts Middlesbrough’s Playoff Hopes
Iheanacho’s goal proved vital as Middlesbrough climbed to seventh in the Championship standings, now level on points with sixth-placed West Brom but outside the playoff spots only on goal difference.
The victory marked their 10th home win of the season and reinforced their push for a Premier League return.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW
For Oxford, the defeat was another setback in their battle for survival, leaving them just four points above the relegation zone after suffering their sixth loss in nine matches.
