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A Proud Moment – Ilenikhena Reflects On Debut Goal Against Madagascar As Nigeria Turn AFCON Opener Around
The forward had hoped to score before Nigeria faced Madagascar; his equaliser helped launch a 2-1 comeback in Uyo.
George Ilenikhena says he was thinking about scoring for Nigeria before his senior debut against Madagascar. He went on to equalise in Uyo on Friday as the Super Eagles recovered from an early deficit to win their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier 2-1.
Madagascar took the lead through Ehsan Kari in the 16th minute. Alex Iwobi supplied the pass for Ilenikhena’s equaliser in first-half stoppage time, according to the Confederation of African Football. Substitute Moses Usor completed the turnaround in the 65th minute after a pass from Semi Ajayi. Nigeria finished the first Group L game with three points.
In a recent interview, the 20-year-old said he had hoped to help the team and score in his first appearance. He described the goal as a proud moment in his young career and said he wants to keep working for a place in the side. He also said he had watched Jay-Jay Okocha and Victor Osimhen.
The Al-Ittihad forward also spoke about his friendship with fellow Nigeria attacker Akor Adams, describing a connection both on and off the pitch. His comments focused on contributing to the national team beyond the opening match. That first goal brought Nigeria level before Usor, another scorer in the comeback, put the hosts ahead after the break.
Nigeria’s next qualifier is against Guinea-Bissau, which began its Group L campaign with a 2-0 away win over Tanzania, CAF reported. Ilenikhena said the squad would prepare to pursue another victory. For the Super Eagles, the next match offers a chance to build on an opening result that required them to recover from a goal down.