The Super Eagles of Nigeria came from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening Group L match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Nigeria fell behind early but showed character to turn the game around, with debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scoring the goals that secured all three points for the Super Eagles in front of their home supporters.
Madagascar took a surprise lead in the 15th minute when Ehsan Kari rose to head the ball into the net. The goal appeared to have come from an offside position, but the referee allowed it to stand, giving the visitors an early advantage.
The Super Eagles continued to push forward in search of an equaliser and eventually got their reward in first-half stoppage time.
Alex Iwobi picked out debutant George Ilenikhena, who kept his composure to finish and make it 1-1 in the 45+1st minute.
Nigeria returned for the second half determined to complete the comeback and continued to pile pressure on the Madagascar defence.
Head coach Éric Chelle introduced Moses Usor, and the LASK winger made an immediate impact after coming off the bench.
In the 65th minute, Semi Ajayi found Usor, who produced a brilliant individual run into the Madagascar penalty area before calmly finishing to put Nigeria 2-1 ahead.
The goal completed a memorable Super Eagles debut for Usor and ultimately proved to be the winner as Nigeria held on to secure all three points.
Group L Standings
Following Nigeria’s victory, Guinea-Bissau sit top of Group L after also winning their opening fixture.
| Position | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Guinea-Bissau | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2:0 | 3 |
| 2 | Nigeria | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2:1 | 3 |
| 3 | Madagascar | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1:2 | 0 |
| 4 | Tanzania | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0:2 | 0 |
Nigeria’s victory gives the Super Eagles three points from their opening qualifier as they begin their campaign for a place at the 2027 AFCON tournament.
Victor Osimhen Celebrates With Super Eagles
Victor Osimhen was present at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo to support his teammates despite being sidelined through injury.
Following Nigeria’s 2-1 victory, the Galatasaray forward joined the players in the dressing room as the Super Eagles celebrated their important opening win.
Osimhen also joined in the celebrations as Moses Simon marked a major milestone with his 100th appearance for Nigeria.
Moses Simon Reaches 100 Super Eagles Caps
Moses Simon celebrated a special milestone during Nigeria’s victory over Madagascar after making his 100th appearance for the Super Eagles.
The Paris FC winger reached the landmark in Uyo, a decade after making his international debut against Uganda in March 2015.
Simon has established himself as one of Nigeria’s most experienced players and remains a key member of the national team.
Moses Simon’s Super Eagles Record
- 100 appearances
- 12 goals
- 65 competitive appearances
- 35 friendly appearances
- 23 AFCON appearances
- 22 FIFA World Cup qualifying appearances
The 100-cap milestone marks a decade of service, commitment and dedication to the Nigerian national team.
Congratulations to Moses Simon on reaching 100 appearances for the Super Eagles.
George Ilenikhena Scores on Super Eagles Debut
George Ilenikhena enjoyed a dream start to his international career after scoring on his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar.
George Ilenikhena gets the equalizer after Madagascar took a shock early lead. – Photo Credit : Julie Sports, X
The Al Ittihad striker came off the bench? and announced himself on the international stage with Nigeria’s equaliser in the first half.
After Madagascar had taken an early lead, Ilenikhena calmly finished Alex Iwobi’s pass in the 45+1st minute to bring Nigeria level.
His debut goal proved to be an important moment in the comeback as the Super Eagles went on to win 2-1.
It was a night to remember for the young forward as he marked his first appearance for Nigeria with a goal.
Congratulations to George Ilenikhena on his Super Eagles debut and first international goal.
Moses Usor Announces Himself With Stunning Debut Goal
Moses Usor also marked his Super Eagles debut in memorable fashion, scoring the winning goal against Madagascar.
The LASK winger was handed a late call-up to the squad after Femi Azeez was left out following advice from Brighton & Hove Albion’s medical team, who wanted the player to use the international break to rest and continue his recovery.
Éric Chelle subsequently called up Usor, and the winger made the most of his opportunity.
Introduced in the second half, Usor brought pace, energy and direct attacking play to Nigeria’s frontline.
His moment arrived in the 65th minute when Semi Ajayi played the ball into his path. Usor drove into the Madagascar penalty area, dribbled past the opposition defence and calmly picked his spot to complete a brilliant solo effort.
The goal gave Nigeria a 2-1 lead and ultimately secured victory for the Super Eagles.
It was a remarkable way for Usor to announce himself on the international stage and a debut he is unlikely to forget.
Congratulations to Moses Usor on making his Super Eagles debut and scoring the winning goal in Nigeria’s opening 2027 AFCON qualifier.
