Ilenikhena: My First Super Eagles Goal Is Just The Beginning

George Ilenikhena has set his sights on scoring more goals for the Super Eagles after enjoying a dream debut in Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Madagascar in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The Al-Ittihad striker marked his first appearance for the senior national team with a first-half goal at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, helping Nigeria begin their qualifying campaign with victory.

The 20-year-old admitted he was delighted and proud to open his Super Eagles account on debut and is now hoping to build on the memorable start.

‘I feel very happy and proud to score my first goal with this national team,’ Ilenikhena told Sports Digital Africa.

‘It is a very big step for me in my young career. I am very happy and hope for more.’

Ilenikhena revealed that scoring on his debut was one of his targets before the game, alongside helping the team secure victory.

‘Before the match, I was thinking to do my best, to give my best on the pitch, to help the team, and to score my first goal,’ he said.

‘I hope for more goals and help the team in the best way possible and win many trophies with Nigeria.’

The youngster also named former Nigeria captain Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha and current Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen as players he has looked up to.

‘I watched Okocha and now Victor Osimhen,’ he said.

Ilenikhena added that he would continue working hard in a bid to establish himself in the national team.

‘I will continue to work hard and do my best for the team on the pitch to be always in the team,’ he added.

The striker was also pleased to have started the AFCON qualifier and described the opportunity as a significant moment in his young career.

‘I was very happy to start the game in a big game for the qualification for AFCON. It was very big thing for me, so I was very happy,’ he said.

Ilenikhena also spoke positively about his partnership with fellow striker Akor Adams, saying they have developed a strong relationship both on and off the pitch.

‘With Akor, we have a really good relationship on the pitch and off the pitch. So to play with him is very good,’ he said.

Attention now turns to Tuesday’s second Group L qualifier against Guinea-Bissau, with Ilenikhena determined to help Nigeria maintain their winning start.

‘We will prepare ourselves in the best way and win the second game for the qualification for AFCON,’ he concluded.