Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on a winning note, overcoming Madagascar 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Madagascar took an early lead after a swift counter-attack caught goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali off guard and stunned the home supporters.
The Super Eagles responded just before the interval, with debutant George Ilenikhena finding the net in first-half stoppage time to bring Nigeria level.
Nigeria resumed the second half on the front foot, as captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi helped the hosts take control of the midfield.
Their pressure eventually produced the winner, with another debutant, Moses Usor, scoring in the second half to complete the turnaround and secure three points for Nigeria.
The result gives Eric Chelle’s team a positive start to their Group L campaign.
Nigeria will travel to Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, while Madagascar hosts Tanzania on the same day.
The Super Eagles are without striker Victor Osimhen for the opening qualifiers after he was ruled out through injury.
Nigeria are second in Group L on three points, level with leaders Guinea-Bissau, who have a superior goal difference. Tanzania and Madagascar remain without points.
