The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The match, which took place on September 26, 2026, was marked by an early scare for the hosts as Ehsan Kari headed Madagascar in front in the 16th minute. This left Nigeria chasing the game, but they managed to mount a comeback.
The turning point in the match came through Alex Iwobi, who sparked Nigeria's comeback with a moment of quality. The Fulham midfielder quickly turned defence into attack before playing George Ilenikhena through in first-half stoppage time. Ilenikhena kept his composure to finish and make it 1-1 before the break. Iwobi's creativity proved decisive in the match, and he was subsequently voted Player of the Match.
Iwobi had earlier had a goal ruled out after Akor Adams was adjudged to have impeded the Madagascar goalkeeper. Despite this setback, Nigeria continued to push for a winner after the interval. The team's persistence eventually paid off in the 65th minute when Moses Usor produced a fine individual effort to put the Super Eagles 2-1 ahead after receiving a pass from Semi Ajayi.
The victory gives Eric Chelle's side a winning start to their AFCON qualifying campaign. The win is significant for Nigeria, who were seeking to bounce back from a difficult start to the match. Madagascar continued to threaten, but Nigeria held on to secure three points from their opening Group L fixture.
The match marked a successful debut for two Nigerian players, George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, who both contributed to the team's victory. Ilenikhena scored the equalizing goal, while Usor sealed the win with a fine individual effort. The performance of the debutants will likely boost their confidence ahead of future matches.
Nigeria will next face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, in their second Group L fixture. The Super Eagles will look to build on their momentum from the Madagascar match and secure another win. The team's coach, Eric Chelle, will likely be pleased with the team's performance and will seek to make further improvements ahead of the next match.
The victory was celebrated by the Super Eagles and their fans, who were relieved that the team was able to overcome an early scare and secure a win. The team's performance was marked by Iwobi's creativity and the debutants' impact, and they will look to build on this momentum in their future matches. The win puts Nigeria in a strong position in Group L, and they will seek to maintain their momentum in the qualifying campaign.
Key points
- Alex Iwobi voted Player of the Match for his decisive performance
- Super Eagles begin 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign with a 2-1 win over Madagascar
- Nigeria next faces Guinea-Bissau on September 29 in Group L fixture
