My name works for me — Kelechi Iheanacho

Kelechi Iheanacho’s non inclusion in the Super Eagles team since inception of the Nations Cup has remained a source of worry for most Nigerian fans. Questions as to why the Leiceister City player has not featured has been attributed to so many speculations.

Iheanacho’s conspicuous absence from the pre-match conference heightened the speculations of a rift between him and the Portuguese handler of the Super Eagles.

But when the former Manchester City playaer stepped up to replace Lookman, he looked up to heaven and prayed.

And like the rejected stone that turned out to be the cornerstone, it was Kelechi Iheanacho who converted the winning penalty as Nigeria held their nerves for a 4-2 shootout win over South Africa to reach the AFCON final that comes up on Sunday at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan.

That magnificient kick by Kelechi Iheanacho instantly made him the hero for Nigeria.

Speaking moments, the player repeatedly said; ‘’my name is Kelechi’’ which means, ‘’thanks be to God’’.

True to his name, Nigerians need to thank God because many before the match dreaded the penalty-saving prowess of South African goalkeeper Rowen Williams. Williams it was who sent Cape Verde packing saving four penalty kicks.

But against a thirsty Nigerian players, desirous for a fourth Afcon title, the South African heroics smothered.

‘’We’re a one team. We believe in ourselves and play for each other’’, Kelechi said as shouts of ‘’Senior man’’ rented the air.

And one overwhelmed Super Eagles fan quipped; ‘’this man’s names work for him. He is Iheanacho which means, ‘’what we’re looking for’’.