Ilenikhena names Osimhen, Okocha as inspiration after Nigeria debut goal
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineGeorge Ilenikhena has revealed that former Nigeria star Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha and Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen inspired him as he reflected on his dream debut for the national team against Madagascar on Friday.
The 20-year-old scored on his first appearance for Nigeria as the Super Eagles recovered from an early setback to beat Madagascar 2-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Ehsan Khari had given Madagascar the lead before Ilenikhena equalised in the first half, while Moses Usor completed Nigeria’s comeback around half-time. Stanley Nwabali also made a crucial second-half save to help Nigeria hold on for the victory.
Ilenikhena said: “I feel very happy and proud to score my first goal with this national team.
“It is a very big step for me in my young career. I am very happy and hope for more.”
The Al-Ittihad forward, formerly of Monaco, said he would continue working hard to remain involved with the 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.
Ilenikhena then disclosed the players who have inspired him, saying: “I watched Okocha and now Victor Osimhen.”
The youngster also revealed that he had already set his sights on scoring before the Madagascar clash.
“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,” Ilenikhena said.
“I hope for more goals, help the team in the best way possible and win many trophies with Nigeria.”
The forward was delighted to be handed a starting role in such an important fixture.
“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 about his relationship with fellow striker Akor Adams, saying: “With Akor, we have a really good relationship on the pitch and off the pitch. So to play with him is very good.”
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With Guinea-Bissau next on the schedule, Ilenikhena said Nigeria would quickly turn their attention to securing another victory.
“We will prepare ourselves in the best way and win the second game for the qualification for AFCON,” he concluded.
Nigeria will travel to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, in their second Group L fixture, with the Super Eagles looking to build on their opening victory.
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