Nigeria fight back against Madagascar as debutants Ilenikhena and Usor make the difference

Nigeria opened their CAN 2027 qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo, coming from behind through goals from George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor.

The Super Eagles were made to work for the three points after falling behind to Clement Couturier’s 16th-minute header. But Ilenikhena equalised in first-half stoppage time before Usor produced a superb solo goal after the interval to secure the win for Eric Chelle’s side.

The result was especially significant for the two goalscorers, who were making their first appearances for Nigeria. Their contributions also eased some of the concern surrounding the attack following Victor Osimhen’s absence.

Nigeria began positively, but their approach was not enough to overwhelm Madagascar. The hosts struggled to control the game with only two midfielders, despite Samuel Chukwueze providing a threat with his pace.

Madagascar took advantage in the 16th minute. Ryan Ponti delivered a cross into the area and Couturier rose to head past the Nigeria defence, leaving the Super Eagles chasing the game.

Ilenikhena had already gone close before his equaliser. After being played in by Calvin Bassey, the forward was denied by Geordan Dupire, while another effort went over the bar from Chukwueze’s cross.

His persistence was rewarded moments before the break. Alex Iwobi found Ilenikhena with an excellent pass inside the area and the striker calmly placed his finish beyond the Madagascar goalkeeper to restore parity.

The equaliser carried added importance for Ilenikhena, who had only just received his first Nigeria call-up for the qualifiers.

Ademola Lookman saw a shot blocked early in the second half, while Bassey tested Dupire with a header. Chelle then introduced Moses Usor and Moses Simon, who was earning his 100th cap, in place of Chukwueze and Akor Adams.

Usor made an immediate impact. In the 65th minute, he collected the ball from Semi Ajayi inside his own half, drove forward and beat two opponents before cutting inside. He completed the move with a left-footed finish that wrong-footed Dupire.

Madagascar remained a threat and Nigeria were unable to put the game beyond doubt. Hakim Abdallah came close with a shot that was blocked inside the area, while later appearances by Tolu Arokodare and Taiwo Awoniyi did not alter the contest.

Nigeria take three points from their opening Group L fixture, although the performance left room for improvement. They will look to build on the result when they travel to Guinea-Bissau on 29 September.

With Osimhen unavailable, Chelle can take encouragement from the immediate impact of Ilenikhena and Usor.