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| Photo Credit — The Super Eagles 🦅 |
The Super Eagles of Nigeria opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, 25 September 2026.
Madagascar took a shock lead in the 16th minute when defender Ehsan Kari headed home from a well-worked short-corner routine involving Ryan Ponti. The visitors capitalised on a momentary lapse in the Nigerian defence, silencing the home crowd early.
Nigeria, missing injured star striker Victor Osimhen, gradually imposed themselves and equalised in first-half stoppage time. Debutant forward George Ilenikhena finished calmly after a through ball from Alex Iwobi, restoring parity at 1-1 heading into the break and marking his senior Super Eagles debut with a goal.
After the restart, coach Éric Chelle’s side continued to press. The decisive moment arrived in the 65th minute. Moses Usor, who had come on for Samuel Chukwueze just a few minutes earlier, produced a fine solo run. Collecting the ball and driving forward, he beat defenders before finishing low at the near post to give Nigeria the lead. (Some reports note the move developed from a defensive clearance involving Semi Ajayi.)
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Chelle made further changes, introducing Taiwo Awoniyi and Tolu Arokodare for Ilenikhena and Ademola Lookman around the 69th minute. Bright Osayi-Samuel later replaced Ola Aina as Nigeria managed the game and protected their advantage. Substitute Tolu Arokodare struck the woodwork late on, but the Super Eagles held firm for the three points.
Nigeria dominated the statistical battle, recording 22 shots to Madagascar’s four and enjoying around 55% possession. The home side created far more territory in the final third, underlining their control after the early setback.
The result leaves the Super Eagles with three points from their opening Group L fixture. Guinea-Bissau also have three points after a 2-0 win over Tanzania and currently lead the group on goal difference.
Madagascar and Tanzania sit on zero.
Nigeria now travel to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, 29 September, at the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro, with kick-off at 5pm Nigerian time.
That match will be another important step in a competitive group where Tanzania already hold a co-host qualification berth, leaving the remaining teams battling for the other spots.
Key takeaways
• Two debutants scored the goals that secured the win, highlighting Chelle’s willingness to trust new talent in the absence of Osimhen.
• The Super Eagles showed resilience after falling behind against the run of play, but the performance still leaves room for improvement in defensive organisation and clinical finishing.
• Early points are valuable in Group L. A positive result in Bissau would strengthen Nigeria’s position as they aim to reach the 2027 finals in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
This victory provides a solid start, but tougher tests lie ahead. The Super Eagles will look to build on the contributions of Ilenikhena, Usor and the midfield control provided by players such as Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi.
Samuel O. Sulaimon is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Naijapiz. He covers news, politics, current affairs, education, and technology.
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