Super Eagles forward George Ilenikhena has explained the meaning behind his trademark goal celebration after scoring on his senior international debut against Madagascar in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Ilenikhena marked his Nigeria debut with an equaliser as the Super Eagles came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1, with Moses Usor scoring the winner.
The Al-Ittihad striker revealed that his celebration is connected to the nickname ‘la gâchette’, which he said he was called in Paris, France, with the gesture representing the act of shooting.
“Something that I always do because in Paris, in France, they call me ‘la gâchette,’ and it’s like when you shoot. So, it’s something I do when I score that represents me now. So, when I score, I do this.
Speaking about the significance of receiving his first senior call-up and representing Nigeria, Ilenikhena said he was delighted to be part of the Super Eagles setup.
“I was really happy and proud to represent Nigeria. It’s a big call for me in my young career to be here.”
The 20-year-old also opened up about his first moments in the Super Eagles camp, admitting that he initially felt shy when meeting the senior players.
“I was a little bit shy, you know, to see them. So, when I came and saw them, they were very good guys. I was really calm when I saw them and talked to them. So, I saw that they were really good guys.I was really happy to meet them.”
Ilenikhena said he also had to manage some pressure after receiving his first senior international call-up, but insisted that his focus became clearer once he stepped onto the pitch against Madagascar.
“I always try to do my best. Like I said, I always try to do my best, play my game and show the way I play. So, there was a little bit of pressure in the beginning, but when I came onto the pitch, I always focused on what I needed to do on the pitch.”
The striker admitted that he expected to score during his debut but was surprised by how quickly his opportunity arrived. His equaliser came shortly before half-time after Alex Iwobi provided the assist.
“I’m a striker, so I always expect to score. So, I was thinking about it, but I didn’t know it would come so quickly. So, I’m really happy and proud to score the equaliser against Madagascar. I was really very happy.”
Ilenikhena described the goal as an important moment in his young international career and expressed his desire to continue working hard for the national team.
“So, as I said, it was a big call for me, and I was really happy. It’s the first goal, and I hope it’s the first of many. So, I will continue to work hard and do my best so the fans can be proud of us and proud of me.”
However, Ilenikhena is now facing a late fitness test ahead of Nigeria’s second Group L fixture against Guinea-Bissau in Bissau on Tuesday.
Reports indicate that he has a minor fitness issue, with head coach Eric Chelle expected to assess him after the team’s final training session before deciding on his availability.
Despite the uncertainty over his availability, Ilenikhena said he would be prepared to contribute if selected for the match against the Djurtus.
“We will prepare for the game in the best way with the team, and I’ll be ready if the coach puts me on the pitch again to give my best and help the team win this.”
Wale Adejumo
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