Chelle watches Ilenikhena’s brace in 3-0 King of Cup Champions win

George Ilenikhena scored twice as Al Ittihad defeated Al-Najma 3-0 in the King of Cup Champions, with Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle watching the new Super Eagles striker. The forward struck in the 16th and 38th minutes to mark his first start for the Egyptian club.

Ilenikhena opened the scoring after Ahmed Al-Ghamdi played him through, allowing the striker to finish into the top corner with his left foot. He doubled the lead before half-time with a low effort from outside the penalty area that found the right corner.

The performance followed Ilenikhena’s move from Ligue 1 club Monaco in January. He had impressed during pre-season before being selected from the start, and his two goals helped Al Ittihad secure a 3-0 victory.

Chelle’s presence added significance to the display as Ilenikhena’s international future has been settled in Nigeria’s favour. Born in Lagos and raised in France, the 17-year-old breakthrough player had been the subject of debate over his national allegiance before talks with Chelle led him to accept a place with the Super Eagles.

Ilenikhena is not listed for Nigeria’s September AFCON qualifying matches, but he is expected to be available for later fixtures before the end of the year. His club side are 17th in the Egyptian Premier League with 36 points from 13 matches, having won three, drawn seven and lost three, with 14 goals scored and 14 conceded.

Al Ittihad’s recent league record is two draws, two wins and one defeat. They drew 2-2 away to National Bank of Egypt, beat Ismaily SC 3-0, lost 1-0 at Ghazl El Mehalla, defeated El Geish 1-0 and drew 0-0 away to Coca-Cola. Their next league match is away to Zamalek SC on August 21, 2026.