Nigeria overcome Madagascar as two debutants score in AFCON qualifier
George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored on their senior international debuts as Nigeria recovered from an early deficit to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo. The result gives the Super Eagles three points in Group L before their next qualifier against Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday. Madagascar took the lead in the 15th minute through Ehsan Kari, briefly unsettling a Nigeria side seeking a winning start. The Barea held their advantage through most of the opening half.
Nigeria equalised in first-half stoppage time when George Ilenikhena scored on his senior international debut. The 20-year-old forward, who plays for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, was among the new players selected by head coach Éric Chelle. The Super Eagles continued to press after the interval and completed the turnaround in the 65th minute.
Moses Usor, another debutant, scored to put Nigeria ahead. Usor plays for LASK, and his goal completed a notable introduction to international football for both new players. The win gives Nigeria three points in Group L.
Their next qualifying fixture is against Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29. Nigeria entered the match without Victor Osimhen, who was ruled out after not fully recovering from a muscle injury. Taiwo Awoniyi was called into the squad as his replacement.
The match also involved plans to honour Moses Simon if he reached 100 senior appearances for Nigeria. The supplied report does not state whether that milestone was achieved. Madagascar’s early goal recalled its 2-0 victory over Nigeria at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, but the visitors could not retain their lead in Uyo.
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