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Ilenikhena Faces Late Fitness Test Ahead of Guinea-Bissau Clash

Posted : 29 September 2026

Nigeria forward George Ilenikhena is facing a late fitness test ahead of the Super Eagles’ 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.

The 20-year-old striker missed full training on Monday as Nigeria prepared for the Group L encounter in Bissau. Head coach Éric Chelle confirmed that the youngster has a slight fitness issue.

“We have to manage George [Ilenikhena]. He has a slight issue, so we will see in the final training session,” Chelle said during his pre-match press conference on Monday.

Ilenikhena made an impressive international debut in Nigeria’s opening qualifier against Madagascar in Uyo. The forward scored Nigeria’s equaliser in first-half stoppage time after the Super Eagles had fallen behind.

His composed finish provided an early indication of what he could offer Chelle’s attack. Moses Usor later completed Nigeria’s comeback with the winning goal to secure a 2-1 victory.

Ilenikhena’s possible absence would leave Nigeria with another attacking concern. Victor Osimhen is already unavailable for the fixture, while Akor Adams is also facing a fitness question ahead of the match.

Chelle, however, still has alternatives within his squad. Taiwo Awoniyi, Tolu Arokodare and Moses Usor are available to lead the attack if Ilenikhena is ruled out.

Usor could be particularly important after his decisive contribution against Madagascar. The forward came off the bench to score the winning goal and could again provide an attacking option from the start or during the second half.

Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau both have three points after winning their opening Group L matches. The Wild Dogs defeated Tanzania 2-0 away from home, while Nigeria came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1.

The Super Eagles will therefore be looking to maintain their winning start and take control of the early qualification race. Chelle’s final decision on Ilenikhena’s fitness could play an important role in determining Nigeria’s attacking setup.

 

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