Nigeria vs Madagascar | Highlights | AFCON 2027 Qualifiers

Nigeria came from behind against Madagascar to start their road to AFCON 2027 with three points. Debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor played key roles in a win that keeps the Super Eagles in the race in a Group L with little room for error.

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Nigeria Come From Behind to Open Their AFCON 2027 Campaign With a Win

Nigeria began their journey toward AFCON 2027 with a comeback victory. The Super Eagles defeated Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo after falling behind and having to rally in front of their home crowd.

The result becomes even more significant because of how it unfolded. George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, both making their senior international debuts, scored the goals that changed the game and gave Nigeria their first three points.

Madagascar Shock Nigeria and Make Things Difficult

Madagascar struck first through Ehsan Kari, who found space inside the box and headed home to make it 1-0. Nigeria appealed for a possible offside, but the goal stood.

The opener forced the hosts to raise their intensity. Nigeria increased the pressure and found an equalizer just before halftime through George Ilenikhena, who took advantage of an attacking move to score his first goal for the Super Eagles.

The equalizer changed the momentum of the match. Nigeria came out for the second half with greater confidence and began pushing for the goal that would turn the game around.

Usor Completes the Comeback for the Super Eagles

The breakthrough came in the 65th minute. Moses Usor collected the ball after Nigeria regained possession, drove toward the box and finished with his left foot to make it 2-1.

The forward, who was also making his international debut, became one of the standout players of the night. His goal completed a comeback that had looked difficult after Madagascar took the early lead.

With the advantage in hand, the Super Eagles maintained control and prevented Madagascar from creating another chance capable of changing the result.

Nigeria Take Three Points and Turn Their Attention to Guinea-Bissau

The victory gives Nigeria a positive start in Group L, where there will be little room for error. Tanzania already has a place at AFCON 2027 as a co-host, meaning Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will compete for the other available spot in the group.

Along with the three points, Nigeria also received encouraging signs from its newcomers. Ilenikhena and Usor scored on their debuts, showing they could become important options during the qualifying campaign.

Nigeria will now look to maintain that momentum when they travel to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29. After coming from behind against Madagascar, the Super Eagles have their first three points and another crucial test ahead.