Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar in Uyo on Friday.
Madagascar took the lead early in the match, but Nigeria responded after the break with goals from debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor to secure all three points.
Madagascar Take Early Lead
Nigeria started the match looking to make a strong opening statement in Group L.
However, Madagascar caught the hosts out during a quick attacking transition and took the lead after beating goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The early goal gave the visitors confidence and forced Nigeria to chase the game at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
Ilenikhena Levels the Score
Nigeria eventually found a way back into the match through George Ilenikhena.
The Al-Ittihad striker marked his senior international debut with a goal, giving the Super Eagles the equaliser and putting the hosts back on level terms.
Ilenikhena had earned his first senior call-up after making an impressive start to the season with his Saudi Arabian club.
His goal provided a major moment in his first appearance for Nigeria.
Usor Completes the Comeback
Nigeria continued pushing after the equaliser and eventually completed the turnaround through another debutant.
Moses Usor found the net to put the Super Eagles ahead and give Nigeria a 2-1 lead.
The two debutants therefore made an immediate impact after being handed their first opportunities at senior international level.
Nigeria Hold On for Victory
The Super Eagles protected their advantage during the closing stages to secure the victory.
The result gives Éric Chelle’s team three points from their opening Group L qualifier and gets Nigeria’s campaign underway with a win.
It also gives the coaching staff a positive result after preparations in Uyo earlier in the week.
Guinea-Bissau Next
Nigeria’s attention will now turn to their second qualifier of the international window.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to travel to Guinea-Bissau to face the Wild Dogs on Tuesday, September 29.
Chelle will now have to prepare his squad for the quick turnaround while assessing the performances of the players who featured against Madagascar.
For Ilenikhena and Usor, their debut goals have given them an early opportunity to make an impression in the Super Eagles setup.
Nigeria will now look to build on the 2-1 victory as the race for qualification continues.