[b]Kelechi Iheanacho[/b] opened his goal account for Middlesbrough in a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Oxford United at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday.

The Nigerian international, who made a loan switch to Middlesbrough from Spanish club Sevilla in the January transfer window, stepped up when it mattered most, leveling the score just three minutes after the restart.

Oxford United had earlier taken the lead through Michal Helik, whose first-half strike had put the visitors in control.

However, Iheanacho responded in style, showing great composure inside the box to fire home the equalizer and reignite Middlesbrough’s push for a much-needed win.

With the momentum in their favor, Middlesbrough pressed for a winner, and their persistence paid off in the 80th minute when Brazilian defender Neto Borges slotted home from close range to seal the victory for Michael Carrick’s men.

The win marked Middlesbrough’s third consecutive home league victory, strengthening their bid for a Championship playoff spot as the season nears its climax.

The result leaves them level on points with sixth-placed West Bromwich Albion in the race for a playoff position, while Coventry City remains just two points ahead with seven matches left to play.

For Iheanacho, this goal will come as a confidence booster after a somewhat inconsistent spell at the club. The 28-year-old forward was notably omitted from Nigeria’s squad for the recent March international break but will be hoping his performance convinces Super Eagles selectors ahead of future call-ups.

With promotion hopes still alive, Middlesbrough now shifts focus to their next fixture against Blackburn Rovers on Friday, April 4, 2025, as they continue their push for a top-six finish.