2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Super Eagles Beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have started their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Nigeria were forced to come from behind after Madagascar stunned the hosts with an early opener in the 16th minute. Clément Couturier found the back of the net to give the visitors a surprise lead.

The Super Eagles responded just before half-time, with newly called-up forward George Ilenikhena scoring in the first minute of added time to restore parity.

Nigeria continued to push after the break and eventually completed the comeback in the 65th minute when Moses Usor scored the decisive goal to put the Super Eagles ahead.

The result gives Nigeria three valuable points from their opening qualifier and puts them second in Group L, with Guinea-Bissau currently leading after beating co-hosts Tanzania in the early kick-off.

Nigeria will now turn their attention to their second qualifying fixture when they travel to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.