George Ilenikhena has outlined his ambitions with the Super Eagles after receiving his first Nigeria senior call-up for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Bold Sports reports.
The 20-year-old forward joined Nigeria’s squad ahead of games against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Ilenikhena has made a strong start with Al-Ittihad this season. He has scored four goals and provided two assists in six Saudi Pro League appearances. He also scored twice against Al-Nassr on September 5 before adding another goal against Al-Fayha three days later.
His latest league appearance came against Al-Shamal on September 14. Al-Ittihad drew that game 1-1. Before that, Ilenikhena produced two assists in a 3-1 win over Al-Faisaly.
Those performances helped strengthen his case for international recognition.
Ilenikhena spoke about his first Nigeria camp and his desire to contribute immediately.
“To be honest, I am very happy and excited to be here to represent Nigeria. I am very proud to be here and show fans my quality in the team,” Ilenikhena said.
“I will give my best always to the training and the games to show everybody that I am ready to play and help the team.”
The Al-Ittihad forward also revealed the scale of his ambitions with Nigeria. He wants to compete for major international honours.
“To win everything with this team, the AFCON, World Cup, and everything I can play with this great team.”
Ilenikhena also described his pride in representing Nigeria. He said he immediately contacted his parents after learning about the invitation.
“It is a honour to represent the Super Eagles because I was born in Nigeria and to represent this country is a very big thing for me.”
“I called my dad and my mum because I was really happy and excited. They were really happy and proud of me.”
Nigeria will host Madagascar in Uyo on September 25. The Super Eagles will then travel to Bissau for their September 29 meeting with Guinea-Bissau.
The young forward believes Nigeria can collect positive results in both qualifiers. He also stressed the importance of working with head coach Eric Chelle and his teammates.
“We will give our best together with the team and the coach to win these two games and qualify,” he concluded.
Ilenikhena will now wait for his opportunity to make his Super Eagles debut. If selected, he could also begin his senior international goals account during Nigeria’s opening 2027 AFCON qualifying fixtures.
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