‘We reacted in the best way’ – Nigeria forward George Ilenikhena on Al-Ittihad’s response to back-to-back defeats

Super Eagles striker George Ilenikhena celebrated a return to form after scoring and providing an assist in Al-Ittihad’s 4-1 victory over Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League on Tuesday.

The Nigerian forward earned the official Man of the Match award after playing a key role in helping Al-Ittihad end a two-game losing streak and return to winning ways.

The victory came at an important time for the Saudi Arabian giants, who had suffered consecutive defeats against Al-Hilal and Shabab Al-Ahli in recent outings.

Ilenikhena’s contribution underlined his growing influence in the team’s attack, with the former Monaco forward continuing an impressive run of form in the Saudi top flight.

Ilenikhena inspires Al-Ittihad response

Al-Ittihad entered the encounter seeking a response after losing 3-2 to Al-Hilal in the Saudi El Clásico on October 10 before suffering a 2-1 defeat to Shabab Al-Ahli.

Ilenikhena missed the clash against Al-Hilal because of fitness issues and returned from a minor injury in the defeat to Shabab Al-Ahli.

The 19-year-old made his opportunity count against Al-Ettifaq, contributing a goal and an assist as Al-Ittihad produced a commanding performance to claim all three points.

His display earned him individual recognition, while the victory provided the team with a timely boost following their disappointing results.

Speaking to the Saudi press after the game, Ilenikhena stressed the importance of responding positively to the consecutive defeats.

“It is very important for us to win this game after losing two games. It is very important to react and we reacted in the best way, so we are very happy,” Ilenikhena said.

The forward’s comments reflected the significance of the result for an Al-Ittihad side determined to regain momentum in the league.

Nigerian forward backs team-first approach

Ilenikhena featured for 73 minutes before being replaced by Youssef En-Nesyri, who scored twice late in the game to complete the 4-1 victory.

Despite being substituted after an influential outing, the Nigerian insisted that individual preferences must take a back seat to the team’s objectives.

“The coach changed. Everybody will help the team in the best way he can. It is what we did today that we won,” he added.

En-Nesyri’s late contribution ensured Al-Ittihad finished the match comfortably, with the Moroccan forward’s brace adding further gloss to the scoreline.

Ilenikhena’s response to his substitution highlighted his focus on collective success as Al-Ittihad look to build consistency after their recent setbacks.

Ilenikhena maintains impressive scoring run

The Super Eagles striker has now registered a goal or an assist in each of his last four Saudi Pro League appearances, maintaining his positive run in front of goal.

His latest performance will provide further encouragement as he continues to establish himself at Al-Ittihad following his move from Monaco.

The Nigerian-born forward has shown his ability to influence matches through both goalscoring and creativity, qualities that could prove important as the club pursues its domestic ambitions.

After helping Al-Ittihad secure a convincing victory over Al-Ettifaq, Ilenikhena will now look to extend his productive run and maintain his place among the team’s attacking options.