Al Ittihad striker George Ilenikhena says it is an honour to join the Super Eagles as Nigeria prepare for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar.
The 20 year old forward spoke exclusively to Trybal News at the Super Eagles camp ahead of Friday’s match in Uyo.
Ilenikhena is part of Nigeria’s squad for the first time. He says joining the national team alongside established players is a proud moment in his young career.
“For me it’s an honour to be here, very proud and happy to be here to be part of this big national team, for me it’s a very big thing because I’m young, 20 years to be here with big players, it’s a big thing for me.”
George Ilenikhena ready for Super Eagles Challenge
The Al Ittihad forward also spoke about the competition for places in Nigeria’s attack. He insists he will be ready whenever head coach Eric Chelle gives him the opportunity to play.
“I’m very excited, I will give my best as always be ready when the coach put me on the pitch and help the team”
Ilenikhena believes his experience in the Saudi Pro League has prepared him for the demands of international football.
“The Saudi pro league is very competitive, you see the big teams they battle a lot to win the title, it’s a hard league, every team wants to win.”
The striker has also settled quickly into the Super Eagles camp. He says the atmosphere has made his first experience with the senior national team enjoyable.
“The team spirit is very good, I just arrived yesterday and I see everybody is together like a big family, it’s very good to be here”.
Nigeria face a crucial start to their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign against Madagascar on Friday. George Ilenikhena says the players are focused on securing a positive result.
“We are really ready, excited to play this first game, we prepare in the best way to win the first game on Friday”.
Away from football, George Ilenikhena revealed that he has already enjoyed several Nigerian dishes since joining the squad.
“a lot a lot, Fried Rice, Rice and Stew, Fufu with Egusi, Ogbono, I eat a lot.”
The forward has made an impressive start to the season with Al Ittihad. He has played six Saudi Pro League matches, starting four, and scored four goals.
George Ilenikhena has also played 326 minutes in the league so far. His form has strengthened his claim for a role in Nigeria’s attack.
Born in Lagos, George Ilenikhena moved to France with his family when he was three years old. He grew up in Antony, in the southern suburbs of Paris.
He began playing football locally with Antony Football Evolution. Interestingly, he started his youth career as a goalkeeper before switching to centre forward.
George Ilenikhena is known for his physical strength, pace and left foot finishing. He has also shown a strong ability to attack space behind defenders.
He made history in the UEFA Champions League when he scored against Barcelona at 17 years and 119 days old. That made him the youngest Nigerian born player to score in the competition.
Ilenikhena was eligible to represent both France and Nigeria. However, after discussions with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, he committed his international future to Nigeria.
Now, he hopes to make his first appearance for the Super Eagles when they begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Madagascar in Uyo.
