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Sevilla earned a place in the next round of the Copa del Rey thanks to Nigeria's Kelechi Iheanacho
Kelechi Iheanacho silenced his doubters with a crucial goal as Sevilla triumphed 3-1 over UE Olot to advance in the Copa del Rey.
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The Nigerian striker, under scrutiny for inconsistent performances, showed his quality with a smart finish, taking his tally in the competition to three goals.
Decisive moments in the Copa del Rey
With his struggles in La Liga and criticism from Nigerian fans still fresh, Iheanacho’s performance was a timely reminder of his abilities and importance to both club and country.
Sevilla entered the second-round clash with lower-league side UE Olot needing a statement win, and Iheanacho delivered. After a quiet first half where a Gonzalo Montiel penalty gave Sevilla the lead, the La Liga side stepped up in the second period.
Juanlu Sanchez doubled their advantage early in the second half before Iheanacho struck in the 73rd minute.
Latching onto a pinpoint cross from the right, he guided the ball into the net to make it 3-0, underlining Sevilla’s dominance. Olot managed a late consolation, but it was too little, too late.
A glimmer of hope amid uncertainty over Iheanacho’s future
Iheanacho’s goal comes amidst a challenging spell at Sevilla, where he has struggled for minutes and form in La Liga.
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Reports suggest the club may offload him in January due to his lack of impact since joining from Leicester City; however, his Copa del Rey exploits offer a glimmer of hope for a resurgence as the season drags on.
Despite still waiting for his first LaLiga goal, Iheanacho is Sevilla’s top scorer in the Copa del Rey and still has the confidence of his coaches.
Iheanacho’s coaches at club and country have both spoken out in defence of their heavily criticised forward, with interim Super Eagles manager Austin Eguavoen and Sevilla’s Garcia Pimenta both urging critics to be patient with the Nigerian forward.
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