AFCON Qualifier: Debutants Ilenikhena, Usor fire Nigeria to 2-1 win over Madagascar

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Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday.

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The victory was made more significant by goals from debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, who scored in either half to overturn Madagascar’s early lead.

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Madagascar struck first after capitalising on a quick transition to beat goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and silence the home crowd.

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Nigeria responded before half-time, with Ilenikhena scoring in the first minute of added time to restore parity and mark his senior Super Eagles debut with a goal.

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The equaliser sent the teams into the break level at 1-1.

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After the restart, Nigeria increased the pressure, with captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi helping the hosts dominate proceedings in midfield.

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The sustained pressure eventually paid off as Usor found the decisive goal in the second half to complete Nigeria’s comeback and give the Super Eagles all three points.

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The result gives Eric Chelle’s side a winning start to their Group L campaign.

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Nigeria will next travel to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, while Madagascar will host Tanzania on the same day.

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The Super Eagles will be without the services of Victor Osimhen for the opening qualifiers after the striker was ruled out with injury.

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Nigeria sit second in Group L with three points, the same as leaders Guinea-Bissau, who are ahead on goal difference. Tanzania and Madagascar are currently without a point.

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