Ilenikhena eyes another Super Eagles win against Guinea-Bissau
George Ilenikhena is confident Nigeria can claim another victory when the Super Eagles face Guinea-Bissau in their second 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture on Tuesday.
The match will take place at the 24 de Setembro Stadium in Bissau, with kick-off scheduled for 5pm Nigerian time.
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Both nations opened their qualifying campaigns with victories. Nigeria recovered from conceding first to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo, while Guinea-Bissau recorded a 2-0 away victory over Tanzania.
Ilenikhena ready for another opportunity
Ilenikhena made his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar and immediately made an impact, scoring Nigeria’s equaliser after coming off the bench.
The Al-Ittihad forward said Nigeria have prepared thoroughly for the Guinea-Bissau encounter and are determined to collect all three points.
“We have prepared the best way we can and I am ready to give my best if the coach calls on me, and we will do our best to win the game,” Ilenikhena told Super Eagles media.
The 19-year-old picked up a knock during the opening qualifier, but head coach Eric Chelle confirmed he could feature in Bissau if he receives medical clearance.
Striker hoping for more goals
Ilenikhena also reflected on his memorable international debut and admitted he did not expect to score so quickly after making his first appearance for Nigeria.
“I am always trying to do my best and play my game. In the first game, there was a little bit of pressure, but when I come on the pitch, I always focus on doing my job,” he said.
“I am a striker, so I am always expected to score. I wasn’t thinking about it, but I didn’t know it was going to come so quickly. I was happy to score the equaliser against Madagascar.”
The youngster is now hoping his first international goal will be the beginning of a productive spell with the Super Eagles.
“It is the first goal, and I hope it is the first of many. I will continue to work hard so that the fans can be proud of us and proud of me.”
Tuesday’s encounter is an important one in the qualifying race, with both Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau looking to strengthen their position after winning their opening fixtures.