George Ilenikhena has revealed that Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha and Victor Osimhen served as his inspiration as he reflected on a dream Super Eagles debut against Madagascar on Friday in Uyo, in which he scored on his first appearance for the national team.

The Al-Ittihad forward, formerly of Monaco, found the net in the first half against the Barea at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, as Nigeria came from behind to secure a 2-1 win in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener. Madagascar had taken an early lead through Ehsan Khari before Ilenikhena, and Moses Usor turned the contest around either side of half-time, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also producing a crucial second-half save to preserve the result.

Speaking after the match, the 20-year-old expressed his excitement and pride at contributing on his debut, while hoping to maintain the momentum in subsequent games.

“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.”

Ilenikhena, who named Okocha and Osimhen as his role models, vowed to continue working hard for the team.

“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.”

Before the game, the striker revealed that he was hoping to score on his debut and give his best for the team.

“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,” Ilenikhena revealed.

“I hope for more goals, help the team in the best way possible and win many trophies with Nigeria.”

He expressed delight to start the game and described the opportunity as a significant moment for him. He also revealed that he shares a good relationship with Akor Adams both on and off the pitch.

“I was very happy to start the game in a big game for the qualification for AFCON. It was very big thing for me, so I was very happy,” he said.

“With Akor, we have a really good relationship on the pitch and off the pitch. So to play with him is very good.”

Ilenikhena said the team would intensify preparations ahead of their next match against Guinea-Bissau as they target another victory. “We will prepare ourselves in the best way and win the second game for the qualification for AFCON,” he concluded.

The young striker will be keen to maintain his fine form when Nigeria travel to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, in their second Group L fixture, with the Super Eagles hoping to strengthen their position in the race to qualify for the biennial tournament.