George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored on their international debut as the Super Eagles of Nigeria came from a goal down to defeat the Barea of Madagascar 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio stadium.
Nigeria’s opening Group L match in the AFCON 2027 qualifying series was in jeopardy thanks to an early goal conceded, but the two youngsters rewarded Coach Eric Chelle’s faith with goals that helped Nigeria over the line.
The win continued Nigeria’s unbeaten record against Madagascar in AFCON qualifiers history.
Chelle welcomed both Stanley Nwabali and Ola Aina back into the team and straight into the starting XI for the AFCON 2025 bronze winners, and both warmed their way back into the team despite a slow start.
Nigeria controlled 60% of possession but it was the visitors who took the lead from a well-executed corner kick play. Eshan sprang the poor offside trap to meet Ryan Ponti’s cross with a well placed header for 1-nil.
The Super Eagles continued to probe their defensively-minded opponents and tried 14 shots in the first half until the equalizer arrived on 45 minutes through debutant Ilenikhena.
The Al-Ittihad striker controlled an Alex Iwobi through ball before slotting into the net for 1-1 at halftime.
Nigeria made a double substitution of Moses Simon and Moses Usor, and the latter completed the comeback with an excellent solo goal.
The LASK Linz forward collected the ball following a cleared Madagascar corner kick, racing towards goal and dancing past two defenders before deceiving the goalkeeper with a finish at his near post for the winner.
The determined hosts held Madagascar off to seal victory and go joint-top of Group L with Guinea-Bissau.
Eric Chelle’s team travels to Bissau to face the Djutus in their next match of the series on Tuesday, September 29.
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