George Ilenikhena is back to scoring form in Ligue 1 as the 19-year-old Nigerian striker came off the bench to hand AS Monaco a dramatic 2-1 win over Auxerre.
The Super Eagles prospect scored his first goal of the season with a powerful late header, sealing a vital away victory for the Red and Whites.
George Ilenikhena Shines for Monaco
Coming on in the 78th minute, George Ilenikhena wasted no time. Just 11 minutes later, he rose highest to meet Vanderson’s cross and delivered the winning goal.
It was a breakthrough moment for the youngster, who managed three goals last season but has already opened his account early in the 2025/26 campaign.
For long spells, Auxerre looked capable of halting Monaco’s momentum. Despite going down to 10 men after Josué Casimir’s dismissal, the hosts still pressed forward.
But Ilenikhena’s late brilliance denied them, extending their losing run to three straight league matches.
The match saw Takumi Minamino give AS Monaco the lead in first-half stoppage time, slotting in from close range.
Auxerre hit back after the break when a Danny Namaso cross forced Mohammed Salisu into an own goal, setting up a tense finish.
And just when fans thought both sides would settle for a draw, then came Ilenikhena’s thunderous header, which sealed a 2-1 win for the visitors.
With this victory, AS Monaco now sit level on points with PSG and Lyon at the top of Ligue 1.
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