Iheanacho: Super Eagles star’s two goals up for award ahead of Celtic vs Rangers derby

Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho has received a major boost ahead of Sunday’s huge Old Firm derby after two of his goals were shortlisted for Celtic’s Goal of the Month award for April, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian forward has enjoyed one of his best spells since arriving at Celtic in September 2025, and his recent performances have quickly changed the mood around him at Parkhead. After struggling with fitness problems earlier in the season, Iheanacho is now one of the most dangerous attacking options available to manager Martin O’Neill ahead of the decisive clash against Rangers.

Celtic shortlisted six goals for the monthly award, but Iheanacho was the only player to receive two nominations. His strikes against Dundee and St Mirren were both recognised after helping Celtic during a crucial stage of the campaign.

The first came during Celtic’s dramatic Scottish Cup semi-final victory over St Mirren on April 19. Iheanacho started on the bench but completely changed the match after coming on in the second half. Celtic eventually won 6-2 after extra time, and the Nigerian produced one of the standout moments of the game in the 100th minute.

Inside a crowded penalty area, Iheanacho stayed calm before guiding a delicate finish beyond the goalkeeper to cap another clinical display. The goal reminded many of the sharp movement and composure that made him such a dangerous striker during his years in the Premier League.

His second nominated strike arrived earlier in the month during a Premiership clash against Dundee on April 5. Once again used as a substitute, Iheanacho delivered in a key moment for Celtic. After controlling a cross from Marcelo Saracchi, he powered a fierce finish into the net in the 82nd minute to secure victory for the Hoops.

The former Manchester City academy graduate has now scored four goals in his last five appearances, including another important winner against Hibernian last weekend.

His nominated goals will compete against strikes from Saoirse Noonan, Anthony Ralston, Kieran Tierney and Daizen Maeda.

Celtic vs Rangers: Chance for Iheanacho to become a hero

Sunday’s Old Firm derby at Celtic Park could become one of the biggest moments of Iheanacho’s Celtic career so far.

The 29-year-old missed four previous meetings against Rangers earlier this season because of fitness concerns, but he is now fully fit and expected to play a major role in the final Glasgow derby of the campaign.

The match arrives with enormous pressure on both clubs as the Scottish Premiership title race heads into its final weeks. Celtic are desperate to keep pace with leaders Heart of Midlothian, while Rangers are fighting to avoid falling completely out of contention.

Recent form gives Celtic confidence. O’Neill’s side have won their last two matches and will also enjoy the advantage of a packed Parkhead crowd. Rangers, managed by Danny Röhl, arrive after back-to-back defeats, including a damaging 2-1 loss to Hearts.

The recent meetings between the two rivals have produced drama and goals. Celtic and Rangers played out a 2-2 draw in March, although Rangers won 3-1 during their previous league visit to Celtic Park in January.

Iheanacho’s growing influence has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of the derby. Celtic legends and supporters now see him as a player capable of deciding tight matches from the bench because of his movement inside the penalty area and ability to score under pressure.

There is also personal motivation for the Super Eagles striker. His current one-year deal expires in June, and a strong finish to the season could strengthen his chances of earning a longer stay in Glasgow.

With confidence rising, goals arriving regularly and two strikes already nominated for Celtic’s monthly award, Iheanacho heads into the biggest game in Scottish football carrying momentum at exactly the right time.