Ilenikhena Reveals Osimhen, Okocha Influence After Debut Goal

Ayomikun Elemikan

September 28, 2026
3 min read
George Ilenikhena

George Ilenikhena has proudly revealed that legendary Nigerian playmaker Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha and current star striker Victor Osimhen served as his major inspirations following a dream Super Eagles debut against Madagascar. The 20-year-old forward marked his very first appearance for the national team by finding the back of the net in Friday night’s crucial victory in Uyo.

Stepping into the starting lineup under head coach Eric Chelle after Osimhen was ruled out with an injury, the Al-Ittihad forward—formerly of AS Monaco—delivered exactly what was expected of him. During the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Madagascar took a shock early lead through Ehsan Khari.

However, Ilenikhena provided the vital spark, scoring in the first half to level the game. Moses Usor later completed the 2-1 turnaround, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali producing a spectacular second-half save to preserve the hard-fought win.

Speaking passionately after the match, Ilenikhena expressed his immense excitement and pride at making such an immediate and decisive impact for his country. He noted that stepping up for the national team is a massive leap in his blossoming career.

“I feel very happy and proud to score my first goal with this national team,” Ilenikhena told Sports Digital Africa. “It is a very big step for me in my young career. I am very happy and hope for more. Before the match, I was thinking to do my best, to give my best on the pitch, to help the team, and to score my first goal”.

The young attacker specifically pointed to two iconic Nigerian figures who shaped his footballing ambitions. He vowed to continue working relentlessly to cement his spot in the national setup.

“I will continue to work hard and do my best for the team on the pitch to be always in the team,” he added. “I watched Okocha and now Victor Osimhen. I hope for more goals, to help the team in the best way possible and win many trophies with Nigeria.”

Reflecting on the grand stage of the AFCON qualifiers, Ilenikhena described the starting opportunity as a significant personal milestone. He also highlighted his strong connection with fellow attacker Akor Adams, noting that their synergy both on and off the pitch greatly benefits the team’s dynamics.

“I was very happy to start the game in a big game for the qualification for AFCON. It was a very big thing for me, so I was very happy,” he explained. “With Akor, we have a really good relationship on the pitch and off the pitch. So to play with him is very good.”

As the Super Eagles look to consolidate their position in Group L, Ilenikhena emphasized that the squad will quickly intensify their preparations ahead of a tricky away fixture. The team travels to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.

“We will prepare ourselves in the best way and win the second game for the qualification for AFCON,” Ilenikhena concluded.