Nigeria defeats Madagascar 2-1 in AFCON 2027 qualifier

Nigeria secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier in Uyo. Madagascar took an early lead in the 16th minute through Ehsan Kari, but Nigeria responded in first-half injury time with a goal from George Ilenikhena.

Debutant Moses Usor secured the win in the second half with a solo effort, driving through the defense to score. Usor, who plays for LASK in Austria, expressed his desire to emulate the consistency and commitment of teammate Moses Simon, who earned his 100th cap for the Super Eagles during the match.

Simon, the fifth Nigerian player to reach the century mark, shared his gratitude to supporters following the milestone. Nigeria now prepares for their next Group L fixture against Guinea-Bissau.