By Femi Atolagbe
Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
The visitors took an early lead after capitalising on a quick transition to beat goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and silence the home supporters.
Nigeria, however, responded strongly and restored parity in the first minute of added time at the end of the first half, with debutant George Ilenikhena finding the net on his senior international debut.
The equaliser ensured the sides went into the interval level at 1-1.
The Super Eagles stepped up the pressure after the restart, with captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi helping Nigeria assert control in midfield as the hosts searched for a second goal.
Their sustained pressure eventually paid off when Moses Usor scored in the second half to complete the comeback and secure all three points for Eric Chelle’s side.
The victory gives Nigeria a winning start to their Group L campaign, with the Super Eagles now level on three points with Guinea-Bissau, who lead the group on goal difference.
Tanzania and Madagascar are yet to register a point.
Nigeria will travel to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, 29 September, while Madagascar will host Tanzania on the same day.
The Super Eagles began the qualifiers without striker Victor Osimhen, who was ruled out of the opening matches through injury.