According to a report by Punch on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Nigerian-born striker George Ilenikhena has spoken publicly after playing a key role in Al-Ittihad’s impressive 4-1 victory over Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League on Tuesday. The forward contributed a goal and an assist, helping his team end a disappointing run of two consecutive defeats.

The 20-year-old delivered an outstanding performance and was named the official Man of the Match following his contribution to the victory. His display proved crucial as Al-Ittihad returned to winning ways and secured three valuable points in the competition.

Speaking to Saudi journalists after the final whistle, Ilenikhena highlighted the importance of recovering from their recent setbacks. He explained that the team understood the need to respond positively after suffering consecutive losses and expressed satisfaction with how the players performed.

“It is very important for us to win this game after losing two games. It is very important to react, and we reacted in the best way, so we are very happy,” he said.

The former Monaco forward had missed Al-Ittihad’s 3-2 defeat against Al-Hilal on October 10 because of fitness concerns. He later returned to action after recovering from a minor injury but could not prevent his side from losing 2-1 to Shabab Al-Ahli.

However, the encounter against Al-Ettifaq provided an opportunity for the Nigerian attacker to demonstrate his quality and make a significant contribution to his team's recovery. His goal and assist helped establish Al-Ittihad’s advantage before the team eventually secured a comfortable victory.

Ilenikhena featured for 73 minutes before being replaced by Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri. The substitute subsequently scored twice late in the encounter, ensuring that Al-Ittihad completed the match with a convincing three-goal margin.

Reflecting on the substitution, Ilenikhena explained that every player has a responsibility to support the team's collective objectives. He stressed that individual decisions made by the coach should not distract players from their shared ambition of achieving positive results.

“The coach changed. Everybody will help the team in the best way he can. It is what we did today that we won,” he added.

The report further indicated that Ilenikhena has now registered a goal or an assist in each of his last four Saudi Pro League appearances. His continued attacking contributions will be important as Al-Ittihad seek to maintain their improved form and build momentum in the coming matches.