Nigeria came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo, securing three points in their opening 2027 AFCON qualifying match.

By Cynthia Okere, Lagos

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have started their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on a winning note after coming from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

The victory on Friday, September 25, handed Nigeria three points in their opening Group L fixture and provided a positive start to the qualification campaign.

Madagascar stunned the home side by taking the lead in the 16th minute, forcing the Super Eagles to chase the game.

Nigeria eventually found a response through debutant George Ilenikhena, who equalised in first-half stoppage time to send both teams into the break level at 1-1.

The Super Eagles continued their push after the restart and completed the comeback in the 65th minute when Moses Usor found the net to put Nigeria 2-1 ahead.

Nigeria held on to the advantage until the final whistle to secure maximum points in their first match of the qualifying series.

The result is particularly important because of the qualification arrangement in Group L. Nigeria are drawn alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and Tanzania, one of the three co-hosts of the 2027 AFCON.

Tanzania are already guaranteed a place at the tournament as co-hosts, meaning only the highest-ranked team outside Tanzania in Group L will qualify for the finals.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle had included Ilenikhena among the new faces for the qualifiers, with the striker earning his first senior Nigeria call-up for the matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Nigeria will now turn attention to their second Group L encounter against Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, as the Super Eagles seek to strengthen their position in the race for qualification.

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.