Kelechi Iheanacho’s fortunate second-half strike broke the resistance of League Two side Walsall, propelling Leicester City into the FA Cup fifth round, as reported on Sunday. The Nigerian forward netted his 17th goal in 23 FA Cup appearances, the highest tally by any player since his debut in the competition in 2016. Iheanacho’s goal came from the edge of the box in the 68th minute, deflecting off Brandon Comley and looping over Walsall goalkeeper Owen Evans, just five minutes after he replaced Patson Daka. This victory marked Leicester’s second consecutive 1-0 win against League Two opposition in the FA Cup this season, with Iheanacho scoring the decisive goal on both occasions.
Leicester City coach Brendan Rodgers expressed hope that Iheanacho can replicate this success as the team aims for a trip to Wembley while also striving to maintain their position in the Premier League. “Last time he did this, we won the FA Cup, so hopefully it’s an omen,” said Rodgers. He acknowledged that there have been some off-field challenges for Iheanacho that the team has had to manage, but assured that the player has been handling them well.
Rodgers also indicated that the 25-year-old forward will receive more playing time in light of Jamie Vardy’s injury and Daka’s struggles with form. “He will get more game time with Jamie Vardy out for a few weeks,” Rodgers noted. “He made a big impact, and some players have that ability coming off the bench. When he gets his chances, he scores. He has made a significant impact in the competition since I’ve been here.”
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