New Super Eagles striker George Ilenikhena has set his sights on winning major trophies with Nigeria after receiving his first senior international call-up.
The 20-year-old forward earned his place in Éric Chelle’s squad for Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau following an impressive start to the season with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad.
Ilenikhena Earns First Super Eagles Call-Up
For Ilenikhena, the invitation represents an important moment in his young career.
The striker was born in Nigeria and said representing the country at senior level carries special significance for him.
He also revealed that his parents were among the first people he contacted after receiving the news of his selection.
Ilenikhena said he was excited about the opportunity and wants to use his time with the national team to show supporters what he can offer.
Strong Start at Al-Ittihad
Ilenikhena’s performances for Al-Ittihad helped earn him the attention of the Super Eagles coaching staff.
The former Monaco forward has scored six goals and provided two assists in nine appearances across competitions for the Saudi club this season, according to reports from Nigerian outlets.
His form has now given him the opportunity to compete for a place among Nigeria’s attacking options.
Ilenikhena Wants to Win With Nigeria
The young striker is already thinking beyond his first appearance for the national team.
Ilenikhena said his ambition is to win the Africa Cup of Nations, the FIFA World Cup and other major competitions with the Super Eagles.
He also stressed that he is ready to work hard in training and matches whenever he gets the opportunity to play.
Nigeria Prepare for Madagascar
Nigeria will begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Madagascar on Friday, September 25.
The Super Eagles will then travel to Guinea-Bissau for another qualifier on September 29.
Ilenikhena is among the attacking options available to Chelle, alongside players including Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare.
The young forward will now wait to see whether he gets his first opportunity to wear the Super Eagles shirt in a competitive match.
A New Chapter for Ilenikhena
The call-up marks another step in Ilenikhena’s developing career.
After making his name in European football before moving to Saudi Arabia, he now has the opportunity to establish himself at international level.
For the striker, the immediate target is to contribute whenever called upon and help Nigeria begin their AFCON qualifying campaign positively.
His longer-term ambition is even bigger: to win major international trophies with the country he was born in.