George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor celebrated their Super Eagles debuts with decisive strikes for Nigeria to beat Madagascar 2-1 and begin their qualifying campaign for the 2027 AFCON on a winning note, but that was not without a scare by the visitors.
#QualifCAN : Le Nigeria renverse les Barea ! 🔥
— CANAL+ SPORT Afrique (@cplussportafr) September 25, 2026
Moses Usor 🇳🇬 signe un superbe exploit individuel et permet aux Super Eagles de prendre l’avantage ! 🦅 pic.twitter.com/uR9LBI6WcH
However, Nigeria will have to again be at their best Tuesday, when they travel to Guinea Bissau, who shot to the top of the qualifying group after they won 2-0 in Tanzania.
Today in Uyo, Madagascar stunned the large home crowd after just 16 minutes, when Ehsan Kari opened scoring.
Alex Iwobi effort on 34 minutes was then chalked off for a foul leading to the goal.
Saudi Arabia-based striker Ilenikhena justified his start with the equaliser in first-half stoppage time.
That was before LASK forward Usor delivered a superb solo goal in the 65th minute that proved to be the all-important match winner.
Another sub, Tolu Arokodare, saw his effort come off the crossbar in the 72nd minute.
It was a deserved home victory for the Eagles, who enjoyed more of the ball and created the more chances.
Fulham defender Calvin Bassey and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also caught the eye with standout displays in the defense.
Moses Simon also won his 100th cap for Nigeria to join an exclusive club that has Vincent Enyeama, Ahmed Musa, Alex Iwobi and Joseph Yobo.
