New Super Eagles invitee George Ilenikhena has revealed his ambition to win major honours, including the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup, with Nigeria following his first call-up for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Ilenikhena’s impressive start to the season with Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League earned him his maiden invitation to the Super Eagles.

The former Monaco striker has made an immediate impact for the Saudi club, scoring six goals and providing two assists in nine appearances across all competitions so far.

Speaking to Pooja Media ahead of the matches, Ilenikhena expressed his delight at receiving his first national team call-up and vowed to work hard in training and matches to prove his commitment to the three-time African champions.

“To be honest, I am very happy and excited to be here to represent Nigeria. I am very proud to be here and show fans my quality in the team,” says Ilenikhena.

“I will give my best always to the training and the games to show everybody that I am ready to play and help the team.”

Ilenikhena added that his ambition is to win the AFCON, World Cup, and other major trophies with the Super Eagles.

“To win everything with this team, the AFCON, World Cup, and everything I can play with this great team.”

George Osazehmen Ilenikhena was born in Lagos to Nigerian parents but left for Antony, Hauts-de-Seine, in France, where he grew up and spent his formative years.

Upon receiving his first call-up to the Super Eagles, Ilenikhena said he called his mum and dad first to express his excitement.

“I called my dad and my mum because I was really happy and excited. They were really happy and proud of me.”

“It is a honour to represent the Super Eagles because I was born in Nigeria, and to represent this country is a very big thing for me.”

Ilenikhena’s profile mirrors Victor Osimhen, who is out injured for the two matches. The 20-year-old striker is quite aggressive on the ball, fast, and potent in front of goal.

The Al Ittihad striker will be in contention to make his debut against Madagascar or Guinea-Bissau as he looks to cement his place in Eric Chelle’s team.

The Super Eagles will take on Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday and Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday next week at the Estádio 24 de Setembro.