Super Eagles striker George Ilenikhena scored and provided an assist as Al-Ittihad responded to recent Saudi Pro League setbacks with a convincing 4-1 victory against Al-Ettifaq.
The Nigerian international played a key role in driving Al-Ittihad forward before being replaced in the 73rd minute by Youssef En-Nesyri. The substitute then completed the result with two late goals.
Ilenikhena said the victory was particularly important after Al-Ittihad had lost their previous league matches, and praised the way the team responded to that disappointment.
“It is very important for us to win this game after losing previous games. It is important to react, and we reacted in the best way, so we are very happy,” he told the Saudi press after the match.
The forward also addressed the changes within the team, including the change of coach, and said the players had focused on contributing in whatever way they could.
“The coach changed, and everybody wants to help the team in the best way they can. That’s what we did today, and that’s how we won,” he added.
Al-Ittihad’s emphatic victory was secured by En-Nesyri’s late double after Ilenikhena had made his impact earlier in the game, giving the side a much-needed result in the Saudi Pro League.