Super Eagles fight back to beat Madagascar 2-1 in AFCON 2027 qualifier

Sports

UYO, Nigeria (NPA) — The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a 2–1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday.

Debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored either side of half-time to overturn Madagascar’s early lead and give Nigeria three points in their opening Group L fixture.

Madagascar stunned the home crowd in the 15th minute when Ehsan Kari put the visitors ahead, briefly raising memories of their 2–0 victory over Nigeria at the 2019 AFCON.

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Nigeria responded by increasing the pressure, with Ilenikhena proving lively in attack on his senior international debut.

The Al-Ittihad forward eventually levelled the score in first-half stoppage time, finishing to mark his debut with a crucial goal and send both sides into the break at 1–1.

Nigeria continued to press after the restart, and coach Éric Chelle introduced Moses Usor as he looked to strengthen the attack.

The change paid off in the 65th minute when Usor, another debutant, scored to complete Nigeria’s comeback and put the Super Eagles ahead.

The LASK winger’s goal gave Nigeria a 2–1 lead, which they held onto despite Madagascar’s attempts to respond.

The victory gives Chelle’s side an important three points at the start of the Group L campaign, with Nigeria next scheduled to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, Sept. 29.

The result also provided a memorable introduction to international football for Ilenikhena and Usor, who both scored on their competitive debuts for the Super Eagles.

Nigeria entered the qualifier without striker Victor Osimhen, who was ruled out of the September fixtures while recovering from a muscle injury. Taiwo Awoniyi was called up as his replacement.

The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to Guinea-Bissau as they continue their pursuit of a place at the 2027 AFCON finals in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.