Celtic secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Dundee FC at Dens Park on April 5, 2026, thanks to an 82nd-minute winner from Kelechi Iheanacho. The Nigerian international came off the bench to score the decisive goal, marking a timely return to form after a season plagued by injuries. The win kept Celtic firmly in contention for the Scottish Premiership title, with every point now critical in the tight race. Iheanacho's impact underlined his value to the team, despite limited appearances this season due to fitness setbacks.
Former Celtic midfielder Scott Allan spoke on BBC's Scottish Football Podcast, stressing the importance of keeping Iheanacho fit for the remainder of the campaign. Allan described the 29-year-old as the most instinctive finisher Celtic have in the number nine position. He contrasted Iheanacho's natural scoring ability with that of Cvancara, who has struggled to convert chances since joining on loan. Allan noted that while Cvancara provides effort, he lacks the conviction in front of goal that defines a top striker. According to Allan, Iheanacho not only finishes better but also links play more effectively, making him the ideal choice to lead the attack if his fitness can be managed.
Scott Allan's point about Iheanacho being absent for three weeks at a time reveals a recurring issue that goes beyond motivation or talent — it's a medical and management challenge. When Iheanacho scores decisive goals off the bench, it proves his quality isn't in question, but his availability is. For Celtic, relying on a player whose fitness fluctuates so drastically makes long-term planning difficult, especially in a title race. The real takeaway isn't just that Iheanacho is their best finisher, but that a consistent solution in attack can't hinge on someone whose presence is intermittent.
