George Ilenikhena targets AFCON, World Cup glory after maiden Super Eagles call-up

New Super Eagles invitee George Ilenikhena has set his sights on winning the Africa Cup of Nations, FIFA World Cup and other major honours with Nigeria after earning his maiden senior international call-up.

The 20-year-old was included in the squad for Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau after making an impressive start to the season with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad.

Born in Nigeria, Ilenikhena has quickly established himself as one of the team’s attacking options, producing a strong run of form in front of goal.

The former Monaco forward has scored six goals and provided two assists in nine appearances across all competitions this campaign, form which has earned him an opportunity to make his senior international debut.

‘I am very happy and excited’

Ilenikhena said he was delighted to receive the invitation and is determined to use the opportunity to demonstrate his ability to the Nigerian supporters and coaching staff.

“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.

The young attacker also promised to approach both training and matches with maximum commitment as he looks to establish himself within the Super Eagles squad.

“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.”

His immediate focus is on adapting to the national team environment and earning the trust of head coach Eric Chelle, but Ilenikhena has already made clear that his ambitions extend well beyond the upcoming qualifiers.

‘To win everything with this team’

The Al-Ittihad forward wants to compete for the biggest prizes available to Nigeria and hopes to play a role in delivering international success.

“To win everything with this team, the AFCON, World Cup, and everything I can play with this great team,” he added.

For Ilenikhena, representing Nigeria carries a particular significance because of his birthplace. The opportunity to wear the Super Eagles shirt has also given him a moment to celebrate with his family.

“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.”

The forward revealed that his parents were among the first people he contacted after receiving the call-up.

“I called my dad and my mum because I was really happy and excited. They were really happy and proud of me.”

Ilenikhena eyes winning start

With Nigeria preparing for two important qualifying fixtures, Ilenikhena is confident the squad can secure the results required to strengthen their campaign.

He believes unity between the players and Chelle will be crucial as the Super Eagles pursue qualification for the 2027 AFCON.

“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, with the Al-Ittihad forward also hoping to mark his first appearance with an international goal if selected to feature against Madagascar or Guinea-Bissau.