Six takeaways from Nigeria vs Madagascar as Super Eagles fight back for victory

Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo was far more revealing than the scoreline suggested.

George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, both making their senior Nigeria debuts, delivered the goals that rescued the Super Eagles after Clement Couturier had stunned the hosts with Madagascar’s 16th-minute opener.

Nigeria were made to sweat for the three points. Alex Iwobi thought he had levelled the contest, only for his effort to be ruled out after Akor Adams was penalised for a foul on the goalkeeper. The pressure continued to build before Ilenikhena struck just before half-time to restore belief inside a tense Uyo stadium.