Nigeria debut hero George Ilenikhena sets sights on more goals

The 20-year-old Al Ittihad forward marked his first appearance for Nigeria by finding the net in first-half stoppage time during Nigeria's 2-1 comeback victory in Uyo.

Ilenikhena cancelled out Ehsan Kari's early opener after connecting with a pass from Alex Iwobi, before fellow debutant Moses Usor scored the winner in the second half.

"It is my first goal for Nigeria and I hope the first of many," Ilenikhena said in an interview released by the NFF Media team.

"I will continue to do my best and hope the fans will be proud of me."

The young striker was a surprise inclusion in Eric Chelle's starting line-up, partnering Akor Adams in attack with Victor Osimhen unavailable through injury.

Ilenikhena admitted he felt nervous when he first joined up with the national team, particularly because of the established players around him. However, the welcome he received from his teammates quickly helped him settle.

"I am really happy and proud to represent Nigeria. It is a big thing for me to be here in my young career," he continued.

"I was a little bit shy to see some of the players, but they were very good guys and I was calm when I saw them and talked to them."

The nerves disappeared once he stepped onto the pitch, allowing him to concentrate on his responsibilities.

"There was a little bit of pressure in the beginning, but when I get on the pitch, I always focus on what I need to do," he said.

Although pleased with his goal, Ilenikhena admitted he did not expect his breakthrough to come so quickly and has vowed to work harder.

"As a striker, I always expect to score, so I was thinking about it, but I did not know that the goal would come so quick," he added.

"I will continue to work hard and do my best for the team on the pitch to always be in the team."