18-year-old Lagos-born forward seals victory for Monaco over Barcelona

Lagos-born forward George Ilenikhena made an electrifying debut for AS Monaco in the UEFA Champions League, leaving a mark against La Liga giants Barcelona, Soccernet.ng reports.

In a thrilling encounter at the Stade Louis II, Monaco emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, and Ilenikhena's decisive goal proved crucial.

The match kicked off with Maghnes Akliouche putting Monaco ahead with a spectacular solo effort. He expertly navigated through Barcelona’s defence and fired a precise shot from inside the box, leaving Marc-André ter Stegen helpless as the ball nestled into the bottom right corner.

Barcelona quickly equalised through Lamine Yamal, who unleashed a powerful strike from just outside the box, restoring parity for the visitors.

The game took a dramatic turn when Super Sub Ilenikhena capitalised on a quick turnover. Launching a swift counter-attack, the 18-year-old forward displayed remarkable composure and skill to slot the ball past ter Stegen from close range, securing a 2-1 victory for Monaco.

KING ILENIKHENAAAAA PUTS THE 2-1!

What a run and shot by our Nigerian striker! 🦅🇳🇬

72′ | 2⃣-1⃣ #ASMFCB pic.twitter.com/37jw5kZ3G7

— AS Monaco EN (@AS_Monaco_EN) September 19, 2024

Ilenikhena, who joined Monaco from Royale Antwerp for a reported fee of €18.75 million after an impressive stint scoring eight goals in 37 matches for the Belgian side, has already begun to justify the investment.

The crucial goal scored by the French-Nigerian forward sealed a memorable win against the Catalan giants and marked his first goal for the French side.