New Super Eagles striker George Ilenikhena has described his first senior Nigeria call-up as a proud personal moment, declaring himself ready to make his debut when the three-time African champions face Madagascar in Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
The 20-year-old Al-Ittihad forward, who was born in Lagos before moving to France as a child and previously represented France at U-16 level, is among the new faces invited by head coach Eric Chelle for the opening qualifiers.
For Ilenikhena, however, the opportunity carries special significance because it allows him to represent the country of his birth at senior level.
“It is an honour, and I am very proud to wear the shirt because I was born here. It’s a big thing to represent the country,” Ilenikhena said.
He revealed that his parents were among the first people he contacted after receiving the long-awaited invitation.
“When I had my first call-up, I called my mom and my dad,” he said.
Ilenikhena enters the Super Eagles set-up following an impressive start to the season with Al-Ittihad. His arrival also gives Chelle another attacking option following Victor Osimhen’s withdrawal from the squad because of injury.
With Nigeria beginning their Group L campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, the youngster insists he will be prepared if handed his first senior appearance.
“I will give my best and show everybody that I am ready to play,” he said.
Beyond making his debut, Ilenikhena is already setting ambitious targets for his international career.
“My personal goal is to win all the tournaments we, the Super Eagles, play in,” he added.
Nigeria will follow Friday’s encounter by travelling to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29, but for Ilenikhena, the immediate opportunity is clear: make his first Super Eagles appearance count and help Nigeria begin the AFCON qualifying campaign with victory.
