Celtic interim head coach Martin O’Neill has expressed satisfaction with the performance of Kelechi Iheanacho, after his double in their 6-2 win over St Mirren on Sunday.
The Hoops advanced to the final of the 2025-26 Scottish FA Cup with a thrilling 6-2 extra-time win over St Mirren, with Super Eagles forward Iheanacho playing a decisive role with a brace in the encounter.
The 29-year-old started the game on the bench as he continues to fight his way to full fitness and his introduction proved crucial in the clash, as he netted twice in four extra-time minutes to seal his side’s spot in the final.
Celtic took the lead after just 57 seconds through Daizen Maeda and they doubled their advantage before halftime through Anthony Ralston.
Then, they missed several chances to increase their lead and were made to pay as St Mirren netted twice through Mikale Mandron, including a stoppage-time equalizer.
Iheanacho took matters into his own hands with two extra-time goals, with Luke McCowan and Benjamin Nygren also adding their names to the scoresheet to seal the victory.
What O’Neill said about Iheanacho
Speaking after the match, Martin O’Neill was full of praise for Iheanacho and believes the Nigerian forward is ready for a starting role in their coming games.
“I couldn’t disagree with that. Obviously, he’s had the few injury problems. I think I said to you that sometimes if you felt as if he started the games, he might not see the game through. We’ve got a couple like that at the moment”, the Celtic boss said.
“Today his goals have been big for us. Really big. He says he is completely fit. And I’m not completely sure, but he was brilliant for us. He took the goals magnificently. You can see why he’s had a career”, O’Neill added.
Celtic will now face Dunfermline Athletic in the final in May, while they also remain in contention to win the Scottish league title as well.
