Former Nigerian goalkeeper, Dosu Joseph says Kelechi Iheanacho’s impressive hattrick in Leicester City’s 5-0 win over Sheffield United will serve as a big threat to Super Eagles opponents Benin and Lesotho in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Iheanacho who has enjoyed a recent run of game time has now racked up nine goals this season in all competitions. The hat-trick was his first in a Premier League match and becomes only the fifth Nigerian player to manage that feat.
The 24-year-old opened the scoring in the 39th minute and doubled his tally half an hour later. He completed his hat-trick in the 78th minute with a scintillating finish from outside the 18-yard box that left Sheffield’s goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale completely helpless
Speaking with Completesports, the Atlanta Olympic gold medal said that Iheanacho’s performance will be a delight to Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr ahead of the crucial AFCON qualifiers.
He stated that the former Man City star will be hoping to replicate his goals form against the Squirrels of Benin and Crocodile of Lesotho on March 27 and March 30 respectively.
“I am really impressed with the general performance of Kelechi Iheanacho against Sheffield United. His hattrick will definitely vibrate a strong message to Nigeria’s opponents in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Benin and Lesotho.
“As far as I am concern, Iheanachio has set a record for himself as the first Nigerian player to net a hattrick in the colours of Leicester City. Besides, Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr will be delighted with his performance and hoping that he can replicate it against Benin and Lesotho.”