Super Eagles Come From Behind To Beat Madagascar 2-1 In Uyo
Nigeria made a winning start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after coming from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Madagascar took the lead in the 16th minute when Clément Couturier headed Ryan Ponti’s cross past the Nigerian defence to give the visitors a surprise advantage.
The Super Eagles responded with pressure as George Ilenikhena came close on several occasions. The young forward had an effort saved by goalkeeper Geordan Dupire before heading another chance over the bar.
Nigeria eventually found the equaliser in first-half stoppage time.
Alex Iwobi picked out Ilenikhena inside the box, and the striker calmly placed his effort into the bottom-left corner to make it 1-1.
The Super Eagles returned for the second half looking for the winning goal, with Ademola Lookman and Calvin Bassey both coming close.
Head coach Éric Chelle then made changes, bringing on Moses Usor for Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon for Akor Adams.
The substitutions quickly paid off.
In the 65th minute, Usor collected the ball from Semi Ajayi inside Nigeria’s half and embarked on a powerful run forward. The LASK winger beat two Madagascar players before cutting inside and firing a left-footed shot into the bottom-right corner.
The goal completed Nigeria’s comeback and marked an impressive competitive debut for Usor.
Madagascar pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, forcing Nigeria to defend their advantage. Hakim Abdallah had an effort blocked as the visitors continued to search for a way back into the match.
Chelle later brought on Tolu Arokodare and Taiwo Awoniyi for Lookman and Ilenikhena as Nigeria held on for all three points.
The victory gives the Super Eagles a positive start in Group L of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
Nigeria will play their next qualifier against Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
