The Super Eagles kicked off their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
What made the win even more notable were the goals from debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, who each scored in a different half to erase Madagascar’s early advantage.
Madagascar drew first blood by making the most of a swift transition, beating goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and quieting the home supporters.
Nigeria hit back before the interval, as Ilenikhena found the net in the first minute of added time to level the score and mark his senior Super Eagles debut with a goal.
That equalizer sent both teams into the break locked at 1-1.
Following the restart, Nigeria turned up the pressure, with captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi driving the hosts’ dominance in midfield.
The relentless pressure finally told, as Usor struck the decisive goal in the second half to seal Nigeria’s comeback and hand the Super Eagles all three points.
With this result, Eric Chelle’s team begins their Group L campaign on a winning note.
Nigeria’s next outing is an away trip to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, while Madagascar will welcome Tanzania on the very same day.
For the opening qualifiers, the Super Eagles will have to manage without Victor Osimhen, after the striker was ruled out due to injury.
Nigeria occupies second place in Group L with three points, matching leaders Guinea-Bissau, who sit above them on goal difference. Tanzania and Madagascar remain without a point so far.
