Super Eagles striker, George Ilenikhena, wants to score more goals for the team after netting his first in the 2-1 comeback win against Madagascar. This match was their first game in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers last Friday, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Ilenikhena scored in the first half at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. His goal helped Nigeria bounce back from an early setback to secure all three points.
Madagascar scored first with Ehsan Khari getting the opener. But Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored goals on either side of half-time to turn the match around. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also made a key save in the second half to keep Nigeria ahead.
In an interview shared by the Super Eagles media team on Tuesday, Ilenikhena talked about wanting to build on his strong debut and make a name for himself in the national team.
"As a striker, my job is to score goals and I hope that is my first of many and I will continue to work hard and give my best," he said.
The 19-year-old also shared his feelings about meeting his Super Eagles teammates for the first time. He admitted he felt shy at first but quickly realized how friendly they were.
"I was shy to see them but when I spoke to them I saw that they were calm," he said.
Ilenikhena was born in Lagos but moved to France as a child. He could have played for both Nigeria and France but chose to represent the Super Eagles.
He has not played for France in any official international match at the senior or youth level. This meant he did not need to change his sporting nationality to play for Nigeria.
The striker started his professional career with Belgian club Royal Antwerp before moving to AS Monaco in France. Earlier this year, he joined Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad.
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