Nigeria Secures 2-1 Comeback Win Over Madagascar in 2027 AFCON Qualifier
Nigeria's Super Eagles came from a goal down to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match in Uyo.
In Brief
- •Nigeria's Super Eagles came from a goal down to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match in Uyo.
- •Madagascar took an early lead in the 16th minute through a Kari Eshan header before debutant George Ilenikhena equalized in first-half stoppage time.
- •Moses Usor scored the winning goal in the 65th minute after evading two defenders inside the penalty area.
- •Head coach Éric Chelle commended the squad's resilience and noted tactical adjustments made to break down Madagascar's defensive low block.
Why It Matters
The victory provides Nigeria with a positive start to their 2027 AFCON qualification campaign while demonstrating squad resilience under head coach Éric Chelle. The immediate goalscoring contributions from debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor highlight successful squad integration early in the group stage.
Key Details
- Match Score
- Nigeria 2 - 1 Madagascar
- Match Venue
- Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo
- Nigeria Goalscorers
- George Ilenikhena (45+1'), Moses Usor (65')
- Madagascar Goalscorer
- Kari Eshan (16')
- Next Fixture
- vs. Guinea-Bissau (Tuesday)
Context & Background
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification process determines which national teams advance to the continental tournament. Nigeria is competing in its qualification group alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and Tanzania.
What To Watch
Nigeria will face Guinea-Bissau in their next AFCON 2027 qualifying match on Tuesday.
Original Reporting & Sources
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