Ilenikhena, Usor Fire Nigeria to 2-1 Comeback Win Over Madagascar

The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

Nigeria had to recover from an early setback after Madagascar took the lead in the 16th minute. Clément Couturier headed home from a Ryan Ponti delivery to put the visitors ahead and briefly silence the home crowd.

The Super Eagles responded with sustained pressure as they searched for an equaliser. Their efforts finally paid off in first-half stoppage time when debutant George Ilenikhena converted from an Alex Iwobi pass to make it 1-1.

The goal capped an impressive international debut for the young forward, who was given an opportunity in attack following the absence of Victor Osimhen through injury.

Nigeria continued to press after the interval, although Madagascar remained dangerous and nearly restored their advantage early in the second half before goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali intervened.

Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle then turned to his substitutes, bringing on Moses Usor and Moses Simon as Nigeria looked for a winning goal.

The changes proved decisive.

Usor completed Nigeria’s comeback in the 65th minute, producing a strong individual run before firing past Madagascar goalkeeper Geordan Dupire to give the Super Eagles a 2-1 lead.

Usor’s goal also gave Nigeria a notable piece of history, as reports said it was the first time two players had scored on their senior international debuts for the Super Eagles in the same match.

Madagascar pushed for an equaliser late in the game, forcing Nigeria to defend their advantage, but Chelle’s side held on to secure all three points.

The victory gives Nigeria a winning start to their Group L campaign. Guinea-Bissau also began the group with a victory over Tanzania, leaving Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau level on three points, with goal difference separating the two sides.

Nigeria will now turn their attention to their second qualifying fixture, an away meeting with Guinea-Bissau in Bissau on Tuesday, September 29. Madagascar are scheduled to host Tanzania on the same day.

The result also marks Nigeria’s first competitive victory in the new AFCON qualifying campaign after the Super Eagles missed out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

For Chelle, the comeback provides three important points and an encouraging contribution from two new faces, while the team will now prepare for another Group L test against Guinea-Bissau.