Nigeria player ratings vs Madagascar: Ilenikhena stars as Super Eagles begin AFCON 2027 with win

Nigeria opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Madagascar, with George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor making the difference at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

The Super Eagles had to recover from a difficult start after Madagascar took the lead, but Alex Iwobi inspired their response before Ilenikhena announced himself with a fine debut goal. Substitute Usor then completed the comeback with an impressive solo finish to secure all three points.

Here is how the Nigeria players rated:

Nwabali sets the tone

Stanley Nwabali – 7.5/10

Nwabali made an important early intervention to deny Madagascar and immediately provided Nigeria with the assurance they needed at the back. His return to the Super Eagles was marked by a confident display as he dealt with the pressure whenever Madagascar threatened.

Semi Ajayi – 6.5/10

Ajayi was strong in the air and gave Nigeria an imposing presence defensively. However, he was part of a defence that was caught out for Madagascar’s opener. He responded positively by setting up Usor’s winner, delivering the assist for the debutant’s decisive goal.

Calvin Bassey – 6.5/10

Bassey produced a solid physical performance and stood firm when Madagascar attempted to test Nigeria’s defence. He was dependable in one-on-one situations and helped the Super Eagles weather periods of pressure.

Ola Aina – 6/10

Aina offered a steady performance at both ends of the pitch. He contributed defensively while also providing an outlet when Nigeria looked to progress from the back.

Bruno Onyemaechi – 7/10

Onyemaechi was disciplined throughout and played an important role in limiting Madagascar’s attacking threat. His defensive work helped provide greater stability as Nigeria attempted to turn the game around.

Iwobi sparks comeback

Wilfred Ndidi – 7/10

Ndidi covered plenty of ground and worked tirelessly in midfield. He will, however, have been disappointed not to take advantage of his first-half opportunity.

Alex Iwobi – 7/10

Iwobi was central to Nigeria’s attacking response. Operating as a creative outlet, the midfielder produced the moment of quality that helped unlock Madagascar and set up the Super Eagles’ opening goal.

Ademola Lookman – 4.5/10

Lookman endured a frustrating outing. He struggled to impose himself on the contest and was eventually replaced in the second half after failing to have the expected influence in attack.

Samuel Chukwueze – 6/10

Chukwueze showed flashes of danger and caused Madagascar problems with his attacking movement. His final decision, however, often let him down when Nigeria needed greater precision in the final third.

George Ilenikhena – 8/10

Ilenikhena enjoyed a dream international debut. The former Monaco striker marked his first appearance for Nigeria with a superb goal, giving the Super Eagles the momentum they needed to complete their comeback.

Akor Adams – 5/10

Adams struggled to make a significant impact against Madagascar. The forward found it difficult to establish himself in the game and was unable to provide Nigeria with a consistent attacking presence.

Substitutes make the difference

Moses Simon – 6/10

Simon celebrated his 100th Nigeria appearance by injecting energy into the attack after coming on. His experience and movement helped the Super Eagles maintain an attacking threat in the closing stages.

Moses Usor – 8.5/10

Usor made an immediate impression on his debut. The substitute capped an excellent introduction with a composed solo effort that gave Nigeria the lead and ultimately secured the victory.

Tolu Arokodare – 5/10

Arokodare added fresh energy to Nigeria’s attack after his introduction but missed opportunities that could have made the closing stages more comfortable for the Super Eagles.

Taiwo Awoniyi – 5/10

Returning to the national team, Awoniyi provided a lively presence during his cameo. He offered Nigeria another attacking option as they looked to protect their advantage.

Bright Osayi-Samuel – N/A

Osayi-Samuel was introduced late in the match and helped Nigeria see out the remaining minutes as they held on for a winning start to their qualifying campaign.