AFCON 2027Q: Al-Ittihad celebrate Ilenikhena after maiden Super Eagles goal

AFCON 2027Q: Al-Ittihad celebrate Ilenikhena after maiden Super Eagles goal

Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad have celebrated George Ilenikhena after the young striker scored his first goal for the Super Eagles during Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Ilenikhena marked his first appearance for the senior national team by finding the net against Madagascar in Nigeria’s opening AFCON 2027 qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday night.

The forward was handed his Super Eagles debut as Nigeria began its qualifying campaign against the Barea, and he responded by scoring an important equaliser before the interval.

Madagascar stunned the home supporters by taking the lead in the 16th minute through Kari Eshan, who produced a superb header to put the visitors ahead.

Nigeria were forced to chase the game after conceding early, but Ilenikhena restored parity late in the first half with a composed finish.

The goal represented a significant moment for the 20-year-old, who was making his first appearance for Nigeria at senior international level.

His performance also drew a reaction from Al-Ittihad, who took to social media to congratulate their player following his contribution in Uyo.

“Congrats to our star George for his role in qualification to the CAF Cup 2027👏🇳🇬,” the Saudi club posted on its X account.

Ilenikhena has enjoyed a productive start to the domestic season with Al-Ittihad, registering four goals and two assists in six league appearances for the Saudi club.

His form at club level helped earn him an opportunity with the Super Eagles, and he quickly made an impression after being introduced to senior international football.

The Madagascar fixture provided Ilenikhena with the chance to make his first appearance for Nigeria, and he took advantage of the opportunity by scoring in his debut.

The striker’s equaliser came after Madagascar had taken the initiative early in the contest, giving Nigeria a much-needed response before half-time.

Ilenikhena’s goal also adds another significant milestone to his developing career, having already established himself as an attacking option at club level.

His contribution against Madagascar will further increase attention on the youngster as Nigeria continues its AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.

For Al-Ittihad, the goal was another reason to celebrate the progress of their young forward, who has continued to contribute in front of goal since the beginning of the Saudi league season.

Ilenikhena will now look to build on his international debut as Nigeria continues its qualifying campaign, with the Super Eagles also scheduled to face Guinea-Bissau in their next AFCON 2027 qualifier.

The striker’s ability to combine his club form with an immediate contribution for the national team will be closely followed as Éric Chelle continues to assess his attacking options.