FIFA Under 17 World Cup Star, Iheanacho Scores in Debut for Manchester City
Opeyemi Oladunjoye
Nigeria’ sensation in the last Under 17 FIFA World Cup held in UAE, Kelechi Iheanacho made his debut and scoring for his club, English Champions, Manchester City FC. Manchester City stepped up their preparations for their Premier League title defence with a 4-1 victory over MLS champions, Sporting Kansas City on Thursday.
City went ahead early on in the pre-season friendly via Bruno Zuculini but the hosts threatened soon, with CJ Sapong hitting the crossbar before Dom Dwyer had a goal ruled out for offside.
Sapong finally equalised on the half-hour mark when he beat City keeper, Willy Caballero from Benny Feilhaber’s cross.
City were 2-1 ahead at the break thanks to Dedryck Boyata’s goal on the stroke of half-time, heading home a Jesus Navas’ free-kick.
Manuel Pellegrini’s side extended their lead when Aleksandar Kolarov converted from the penalty spot following a foul on Scott Sinclair by Michael Kafari.
Nigeria’s 17-year-old striker, Kelechi Iheanacho scored his first goal for the club, making the scoreline 4-1 with two minutes remaining as Pellegrini’s side completed their victory in style.
Pellegrini praised Kelechi Iheanacho after his performance although noting that the Premier League champions may have difficulties in securing a work permit for the U-17 World Cup Golden ball winner.
