The Super Eagles of Nigeria survived an early scare to make a winning start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, coming from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo on Friday.
Nigeria fell behind in the 16th minute when Ehsan Kari headed Madagascar into the lead, with the goal allowed to stand despite appearing to have been scored from an offside position.
The Super Eagles responded by stepping up the pressure in search of an equaliser, with Alex Iwobi having the ball in the net in the 34th minute. However, the effort was ruled out after Akor Adams was adjudged to have impeded the Madagascar goalkeeper.
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Nigeria eventually found a breakthrough in first-half stoppage time through George Ilenikhena, who marked his Super Eagles debut with an important equaliser.
The goal capped an impressive debut for Ilenikhena after head coach Eric Chelle handed him his first senior appearance for Nigeria.
Nigeria continued to push after the interval and completed the comeback in the 65th minute through another debutant.
Moses Usor put the Super Eagles ahead with his first goal for Nigeria after receiving an assist from Semi Ajayi, giving Chelle’s side a 2-1 advantage.
The result gives Nigeria three points from their opening Group L fixture and provides an important early boost in their pursuit of qualification for the 2027 AFCON.
Chelle’s side will now turn their attention to their second qualifying match, a road fixture against Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.
