George Ilenikhena made the perfect start to his Super Eagles career against Madagascar, but the Al-Ittihad striker now faces a late fitness check before Nigeria’s second 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau in Bissau, Footynaija.com reports.
Ilenikhena scored on his senior international debut on Friday, rescuing Nigeria from an early setback before Moses Usor completed the 2-1 comeback win in Uyo. The result gave Eric Chelle’s side three points, but the short turnaround has left the coach with little time to assess players carrying knocks from the opening game.
Ilenikhena started alongside Akor Adams against Madagascar and was taken off in the 69th minute. Both forwards subsequently trained separately from the rest of the squad, raising doubts over their availability for Tuesday’s meeting.
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Nigeria also have Victor Osimhen unavailable after he failed to recover from a muscle injury before the international window, making the fitness of the other forwards more important as Chelle prepares for a Guinea-Bissau side that also won its opening qualifier.
Chelle explains Ilenikhena’s situation
Chelle has now revealed that Ilenikhena is being managed ahead of the second Group L fixture, although he did not give details about the nature or seriousness of the issue.
“We have to manage George. He has a little bit of something, so we have to manage the last session. After that, we have a preparation session,” he said.
The striker’s situation will be one to watch as Nigeria complete their preparation in Bissau. His absence would leave Chelle with fewer options after Ilenikhena’s first appearance for the senior side produced an immediate reward.
The 20-year-old reacted quickest in first-half stoppage time against Madagascar to score Nigeria’s equaliser, before Usor struck after the break.
Guinea-Bissau also began their campaign with three points, beating Tanzania 2-0 away from home. With both sides on three points, Tuesday’s meeting gives Nigeria the chance to move onto six points, but Chelle must first determine how much of his attack is available.
