George Ilenikhena sets new African UCL appearance record
George Ilenikhena, a Lagos-born forward for AS Monaco, has become the youngest African player to reach 15 UEFA Champions League appearances, surpassing the previous record held by Nwankwo Kanu. The milestone was achieved following his appearance for Monaco in their 6-1 defeat to Real Madrid. Ilenikhena's rapid rise in European football has drawn attention due to his performances at both youth and senior levels. He has also become Monaco’s youngest-ever goalscorer in the Champions League, breaking a record previously held by Kylian Mbappé.
Match highlights
- George Ilenikhena reached 15 UEFA Champions League appearances at 19 years and 157 days old, breaking Nwankwo Kanu's record.
- He made his Champions League debut with Royal Antwerp and scored a 92nd-minute winner against Barcelona on December 13, 2023.
- Kanu set his record at 19 years and 260 days old on April 17, 1996, scoring for Ajax in a semi-final win over Panathinaikos.
- In July 2024, Ilenikhena transferred to AS Monaco and has since featured regularly in domestic and European matches.
- He has played 14 Ligue 1 matches this season, scoring two goals, and has represented France at youth level.
