Nigeria’s Super Eagles made a winning start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after coming from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
The victory provided a memorable senior international debut for the duo of George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, with the two youngsters scoring the goals that secured all three points for Eric Chelle’s side.
Madagascar stunned the home crowd by taking the lead after capitalising on a quick transition. The early setback put Nigeria under pressure, but the Super Eagles remained composed as they searched for a way back into the game.
Their persistence was rewarded just before the break. Ilenikhena found the back of the net in the first minute of added time to restore parity and cap his senior Super Eagles debut with a goal.
Nigeria returned for the second half with renewed intensity, putting Madagascar under sustained pressure. The pressure eventually paid off in the 65th minute when Usor scored the winning goal to complete the comeback.
The 2-1 victory means Nigeria open their Group L campaign with three valuable points and a boost of confidence ahead of their next qualifier.
The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to their next Group L fixture, when they travel to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29. On the same day, Madagascar will host Tanzania as the qualifying campaign continues.
