Nigeria 2-1 Madagascar: Nigeria Open AFCON Qualifiers With Comeback Win

Nigeria's Super Eagles came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday, kicking off their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a win.

The result was made even sweeter by the fact that both goals came from debutants, George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, who scored either side of half time to turn the game around.

Madagascar took an early lead after catching Nigeria out on the counter, beating goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to silence the home crowd. Nigeria responded right before the break though, with Ilenikhena marking his senior debut with a goal in first half stoppage time to level things up at 1-1 heading into the interval.

Nigeria came out stronger after the restart, with captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi helping the hosts take control of midfield. That pressure eventually told, with Usor grabbing the winner in the second half to complete the comeback and secure all three points for the Super Eagles.

The win gives Eric Chelle's side a strong start to life in Group L. Nigeria will next travel to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, while Madagascar host Tanzania on the same day.

Victor Osimhen missed the opening qualifier through injury and remains unavailable for the trip to Guinea-Bissau. Nigeria currently sit second in Group L with three points, level with leaders Guinea-Bissau but behind on goal difference, while Tanzania and Madagascar are both still without a point.