George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored on their Super Eagles debuts as Nigeria came from behind to secure three points in Uyo.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Madagascar took an early lead, but debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored to turn the match around and give Nigeria three points from their opening Group L fixture.
The result gives Eric Chelle's side a winning start to the qualification campaign, although Nigeria were forced to recover from an early setback before securing the victory.
Madagascar strike first in Uyo
Nigeria started the match without injured striker Victor Osimhen, who was unavailable for the opening two qualifiers.
Chelle handed Ilenikhena his senior international debut, while Stanley Nwabali returned in goal and Ola Aina was also back in the team.
Despite Nigeria controlling much of the early possession, Madagascar created the breakthrough in the 16th minute.
Ehsan Kari headed Madagascar into the lead after the visitors capitalised on a set-piece situation, putting the Super Eagles under pressure in front of their home supporters.
Nigeria attempted to respond immediately, with Wilfred Ndidi going close with a header.
Alex Iwobi then appeared to have equalised in the first half, but the goal was ruled out after referee intervention following a foul involving Akor Adams and the Madagascar goalkeeper.
Ilenikhena scores on Super Eagles debut
Nigeria eventually found the equaliser in first-half stoppage time.
Iwobi played a defence-splitting pass into the penalty area, and Ilenikhena controlled the opportunity before calmly finishing to make it 1-1.
It was a significant moment for the 20-year-old forward, who was making his first appearance for the senior national team.
His goal ensured Nigeria went into the interval level after Madagascar had frustrated the hosts for much of the opening period.
The equaliser also gave Nigeria renewed momentum going into the second half.
Moses Usor completes the comeback
The Super Eagles returned from the break with greater attacking intent.
Nigeria increased the pressure around the Madagascar penalty area, with Iwobi and Ndidi helping the hosts maintain control in midfield.
Chelle made a double substitution in the 61st minute, introducing Moses Usor and Moses Simon for Samuel Chukwueze and Akor Adams.
Usor made an immediate impact.
Four minutes after his introduction, the LASK winger put Nigeria ahead in the 65th minute.
Usor collected the ball outside the penalty area, drove forward and finished at the near post to give Nigeria a 2-1 lead.
Like Ilenikhena, Usor was scoring on his senior international debut.
The two goals therefore gave Nigeria a notable piece of history, with two players scoring on their Super Eagles debuts in the same match.
Nigeria hold on for three points
Madagascar attempted to respond after falling behind, but Nigeria managed the remainder of the match and protected their advantage.
Tolu Arokodare came close to adding a third goal for the Super Eagles, but his effort struck the post.
Nigeria ultimately held on for the 2-1 victory and collected maximum points from their opening qualifying fixture.
The win was particularly important given the absence of Osimhen and the number of new players introduced into Chelle's squad.
Nigeria now face Guinea-Bissau
The Super Eagles will not have much time to celebrate the victory.
Nigeria's next Group L fixture is against Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.
Guinea-Bissau also opened their campaign with a victory, defeating Tanzania 2-0 away from home according to reports. That leaves Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau level on three points, with Guinea-Bissau ahead on goal difference.
The group has an unusual qualification situation because Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania are hosting the 2027 AFCON, with Tanzania already guaranteed a place at the finals as a co-host.
As a result, the qualification battle in Group L involves Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau competing for the remaining qualifying place.
That makes Nigeria's opening victory particularly valuable, although the campaign is still at an early stage.
Debutants provide early boost for Chelle
The performances of Ilenikhena and Usor will be among the biggest talking points from Nigeria's opening match.
Chelle's decision to introduce new faces paid off as both debutants found the net and turned a difficult opening into a victory.
Ilenikhena provided the equaliser shortly before half-time, while Usor delivered the decisive goal after the break.
The result also gives Chelle an opportunity to build momentum with a squad that continues to undergo changes.
Nigeria will now travel to Guinea-Bissau looking to follow up their opening victory with another positive result.
For the Super Eagles, the first objective has been achieved: three points and a winning start to the road toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
