Ilenikhena, Usor Score to Help Super Eagles Beat Madagascar 2–1 in AFCON 2027 Qualifier

• Nigeria's Super Eagles claimed a comeback win over Madagascar in their opening 2027 AFCON qualifier at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium
• Two Super Eagles debutants found the net on matchday one, highlighting coach Eric Chelle's ability to identify new talent
• Nigeria now face Guinea-Bissau, who top Group L on goal difference after beating Tanzania 2-0 in their first match

Nigeria's Super Eagles came from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Thursday.

Madagascar drew first blood in the 18th minute when Ehsan Kari put the visitors ahead, leaving Nigeria with plenty of work to do in a bid to secure victory.

The equaliser came deep into first-half stoppage time through George Ilenikhena, who marked his senior debut for the Super Eagles with a goal.

Nigeria completed the turnaround in the 65th minute when fellow debutant Michael Usor struck a brilliant effort to put the home side in front. The Super Eagles managed the remainder of the match to secure all three points.

Chelle's scouting earns early praise

The fact that two players made their debuts and both scored underlines the quality of the talent identification process put in place by head coach Eric Chelle since he took charge of the national team.

The Malian tactician continues to cast a wide net in search of players who can add depth and competition to the Nigerian national team squad.

Despite the victory, Nigeria do not lead Group L. Guinea-Bissau, who defeated co-hosts Tanzania 2-0 in the other opening fixture, currently sit top of the group on goal difference.

With only one team advancing from the group, the Super Eagles will need to address that deficit when they travel to face Guinea-Bissau in their second qualifier.

Meanwhile, Tanzania and Madagascar will face each other in the remaining matchday two fixture, as both nations look to recover from opening-match defeats.

Moses Simon joins centurion club

Legit.ng previously reported that Moses Simon joined the list of players who have played 100 matches for the Super Eagles after playing against Madagascar.

The Paris FC forward came off the bench in the second half of the 2-1 win over Madagascar to become the fifth member of the centurion club.