George Ilenikhena has shared his thoughts after producing an impressive performance on his Super Eagles debut, Bold Sports reports.
The Al-Ittihad forward led the attack from the start and repaid Eric Chelle’s trust by finding the net as Nigeria came from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Reacting to making his first appearance for Nigeria, Ilenikhena took to his official Instagram account after the game, expressing his delight at achieving the feat.
“Proud to have made my debut with the national team. We keep working,” the 20-year-old wrote.
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With seven goals and two assists in his ten appearances for club and country this season, Ilenikhena is currently enjoying the form of his life. He will now be looking to continue his impressive run when Nigeria return to action on Tuesday, September 29.
The Super Eagles will travel to face Guinea-Bissau in their second Group L fixture, with the Djurtus currently sitting top of the group after defeating Tanzania 2-0 away from home.
Nigeria are second on goal difference after their comeback victory over Madagascar, setting up an early clash between the top two sides in the group.
The encounter in Bissau is particularly significant because of the unique qualification situation in Group L. Tanzania, who are hosting the 2027 AFCON alongside Kenya and Uganda, are already guaranteed a place at the tournament as one of the co-hosts.
With Tanzania therefore already qualified, only one of the remaining three teams in Group L, Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau or Madagascar, will secure qualification through the group.
That makes Tuesday’s meeting a crucial one for the Super Eagles, who will be aiming to follow up their opening victory with another positive result and move ahead of Guinea-Bissau in the race for the group’s sole qualification place.
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