Uyo, Nigeria (Running Africa) — Nigeria came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo, opening their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with three points as debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored for the Super Eagles.

Madagascar stunned the hosts in the 16th minute when Ehsan Kari headed home from a short-corner routine.

Nigeria found their equalizer in first-half stoppage time, with George Ilenikhena converting a pass from Alex Iwobi to score on his senior international debut.

Moses Usor Completes Nigeria Comeback

Another debutant, Moses Usor, completed the turnaround in the 65th minute.

The LASK winger collected the ball on the right, moved inside past two Madagascar defenders and fired a low finish into the near corner to put Nigeria 2-1 ahead.

The Super Eagles held on to secure victory in their opening Group L fixture.

Nigeria Win Without Victor Osimhen

Nigeria were without injured striker Victor Osimhen, giving Ilenikhena the opportunity to start as the team’s number nine.

The striker responded with a goal on his debut, while Usor’s second-half winner ensured both of Nigeria’s goals came from players making their first senior international appearances.

The victory gave Eric Chelle’s side three points and extended Nigeria’s unbeaten record against Madagascar in AFCON qualifying.

Super Eagles Face Guinea-Bissau Next

Nigeria will next travel to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, in their second AFCON 2027 qualifier.

Guinea-Bissau also began their Group L campaign with a victory, beating Tanzania 2-0.

The result sets up an early meeting between the group’s two opening-round winners as Nigeria continue their push to qualify for AFCON 2027.