Nigeria’s Super Eagles opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
The win was made even more notable by goals from debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, who struck in either half to overturn Madagascar’s early advantage.
Madagascar took the lead after catching the Nigerian defence on a quick transition, beating goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and silencing the home crowd.
Nigeria responded just before the break, with Ilenikhena finding the net in the first minute of added time to level the scores and mark his senior international debut with a goal.
The equaliser sent both sides into half-time at 1-1.
Nigeria returned from the interval with increased intensity, as captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi helped the hosts establish control in midfield.
The pressure eventually paid off when Usor scored in the second half to complete Nigeria’s comeback and secure all three points for Eric Chelle’s side.
The result gives the Super Eagles a winning start to their Group L campaign.
Nigeria will travel to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, while Madagascar will host Tanzania on the same day.
The Super Eagles began the qualifiers without striker Victor Osimhen, who was ruled out of the opening matches through injury.
Nigeria currently sit second in Group L with three points, level with leaders Guinea-Bissau, who have a superior goal difference. Tanzania and Madagascar are yet to earn a point.
