George Ilenikhena marks first Al-Ittihad start with two-goal display in King’s Cup

George Ilenikhena scored twice on his first start for Al-Ittihad and said his strong pre-season preparation had helped him make an immediate impact in the King’s Cup.

The Nigeria striker found the net in the 16th and 38th minutes as Al-Ittihad beat Al-Najma 3-0 in the last 32 of the competition on Tuesday.

Both goals came from powerful left-footed efforts. Ilenikhena’s first was struck from inside the penalty area, while his second came from outside the box, helping Al-Ittihad establish a commanding lead before half-time.

Speaking to Thmanyah after the match, the 20-year-old said the work he had put in during preparations for the new campaign had contributed to his performance.

“I worked hard during the pre-season to be ready for this season and the beginning of my journey with the team, so I am happy,” Ilenikhena said.

The forward also stressed that he was determined to focus on the current campaign rather than dwell on the previous season.

“Last season is in the past, and now we are focused on the present. I am working hard with the support and confidence of the coach, all the members of the technical staff and the players, and I am ready to help the team in the best way,” he added.

Ilenikhena completed the scoring in the first half as Al-Ittihad secured their place in the next round of the King’s Cup with a comfortable victory at King Abdullah Sports City in Buraidah.

The match was the first time the striker had been named in Al-Ittihad’s starting line-up since joining the club from Monaco during the winter transfer window.

His celebration also attracted attention after both goals. Ilenikhena explained that the gesture was something he had created with friends and had previously used while playing for Monaco.

“I created my celebration with my friends, and I used to celebrate with it in Monaco before coming here, so I repeated it today after both goals,” he said.

The performance provided Ilenikhena with an encouraging start to his time as a regular starter at Al-Ittihad. He had been waiting since his move from Monaco for his first starting appearance, and took the opportunity by scoring twice before the interval.

Al-Ittihad’s three-goal win over Al-Najma came in the last 32 of the King’s Cup, with Ilenikhena’s early contribution proving decisive after the two sides met at the stadium in Buraidah.