The Nigerian Super Eagles, three-time winners of the Africa Cup of Nations, secured a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in their matchday one qualifier for the next AFCON. The match, played on Friday, September 27, 2026, saw the Super Eagles come from behind to claim all three points. Madagascar took the lead in the 16th minute through Ehsan Kari's header, but debutant George Ilenikhena equalized just before halftime. Moses Usor, another debutant, scored the winning goal after coming off the bench.
The Super Eagles had a difficult start, with Madagascar taking the lead against the run of play. Ehsan Kari nodded home an excellent delivery from a short corner routine, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead. However, the Super Eagles regrouped, with captain Wilfred Ndidi and debutant Ilenikhena going close to equalizing. Akor Adams also failed to hit the target when found in space inside the penalty area. The Super Eagles' struggles in recent years have raised concerns among fans, with the team failing to qualify for the last World Cup and experiencing early exits in major tournaments.
The Super Eagles' equalizer came just before halftime, with Ilenikhena calmly finding the bottom corner to bring Nigeria back into the game. The Al-Ittihad forward gave Nigeria greater movement in attack and immediately looked comfortable at international level. However, he could have scored more than one goal if he had taken his chances. The team's performance was a mixed bag, with some players putting up outstanding outings while others struggled.
Moses Usor, who came off the bench, completely changed the game with his brilliant solo effort, beating two Madagascar defenders before firing past the goalkeeper at the near post. His introduction added a new dimension to the Super Eagles' attack, and he provided the decisive goal. The win marked a positive start to the qualifiers for the Super Eagles, but they will need to improve their performance in the coming matches.
The Super Eagles' goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, made an important save early in the second half to prevent Madagascar from extending their advantage. He was on holiday for most of the second half, but his composure in goal and alertness were key on the night. Ola Aina was steady on his return to the Super Eagles' starting XI, offering width from the right and generally dealing with Madagascar's attacking threat.
The Super Eagles' captain, Wilfred Ndidi, grew into the match, helping Nigeria regain control of midfield after the early setback. He was particularly influential in the second half as the Super Eagles increased the pressure. Alex Iwobi was one of Nigeria's more influential players, helping connect midfield with the attack and providing a brilliant assist for Ilenikhena's equalizer.
The Super Eagles will look to build on this narrow win as they face Guinea Bissau in their next qualifier. The team's performance was a mixed bag, and they will need to address their weaknesses to mount a serious challenge for the coveted trophy. The win marked a positive start to the qualifiers, but the Super Eagles will need to improve their consistency and teamwork to achieve their goals.
Key points
- The Super Eagles secured a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in their AFCON qualifier match.
- Debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored crucial goals for the Super Eagles.
- The Super Eagles will face Guinea Bissau in their next qualifier.
