Nigeria opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The Super Eagles went into half-time level at 1-1 after Madagascar matched Nigeria's opening goal in an entertaining first half. The win was crucial for Nigeria, who could not afford to underestimate their opponents, given Madagascar's previous 2-0 win over the Super Eagles during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
The match was marked by intense pressure, as only one non-host nation can secure qualification in Group L. Tanzania, one of the tournament's co-hosts, already has a guaranteed place at AFCON 2027, leaving Nigeria, Madagascar, and Guinea-Bissau competing for the group's single remaining qualification ticket. Nigeria's head coach, Eric Chelle, had stressed the importance of securing maximum points in the opening assignments against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
The Super Eagles were without Victor Osimhen, who missed both September qualifiers due to a muscle injury, increasing the responsibility on the team's other attacking players. Despite this setback, Nigeria continued searching for a winner after the restart. Chelle introduced Moses Usor and Moses Simon for Samuel Chukwueze and Akor Adams, which eventually paid off, with Usor scoring late to restore the Super Eagles' lead.
Madagascar refused to surrender and nearly punished Nigeria in the closing stages. Calvin Bassey lost possession in midfield, allowing Rayan Raveloson to advance towards goal. However, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali reacted quickly, closing down the angle and denying the Malagasy attacker a clear opportunity to level the contest. The victory marked a significant result for Nigeria, who had been seeking a strong start to their campaign.
The win carries added importance due to Group L's qualification structure. Every dropped point could have a direct impact on the race, while victories against direct competitors become especially valuable. Nigeria's next assignment comes on September 29, when Chelle's side travel to face Guinea-Bissau. The Super Eagles will hope to build on their opening win, knowing that another positive result would strengthen their position in a qualification battle with little margin for error.
The previous setback against Madagascar served as a reminder that Nigeria could not afford to underestimate their opponents. Chelle had emphasized the importance of securing maximum points before the match. The Super Eagles were also without Victor Osimhen, who missed both September qualifiers because of a muscle injury, increasing the responsibility on the team's other attacking players.
The tight structure of Group L means the Super Eagles must maintain their focus throughout the campaign if they are to secure a place at the 2027 AFCON finals. Nigeria's victory gives them the start they wanted, but they must continue to perform well in the upcoming matches to ensure a spot in the tournament. The Super Eagles' next match against Guinea-Bissau will be crucial in determining their chances of qualification.
Key points
- Nigeria secured a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign opener.
- The win puts Nigeria in a strong position in Group L, but they must maintain their focus to secure a place at the 2027 AFCON finals.
- The Super Eagles' next match against Guinea-Bissau on September 29 will be crucial in determining their chances of qualification.
