In their first match of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, Nigeria succumbed to a 2-1 comeback win against Madagascar in Uyo, thanks to debutants George Ilhenikena and Moses Usor.
Nigeria’s hopes were almost dashed in the 15th minute when Kari Eshan headed Madagascar into the lead, taking advantage of a quick corner which caught the Super Eagles defence napping.
Nigeria equalised through Alex Iwobi only for the strike to be chalked off for a foul by Akor Adams on goalkeeper Geordan Dupire.
Ilhenikena equalised just before the break on his first start for Nigeria The forward controlled Iwobi’s lofted pass, beat Jean-Pierre Morgan to the ball and steadied himself before rolling past Dupire.
Madagascar looked to go back in front after the restart as Rayan Raveloson beat the Nigerian defence to the ball on his way to goal, but Nwabali was alert to the danger.
Eric Chelle resorted to his replacements in his attempt to find a winner, and Usor made an immediate impact after coming on for Samuel Chukwueze.
Upfront, LASK’s Bordeianu slotted in Nigeria second goal of the game after Drgar set him up to rally Nigeria from 1-0 down at home.
Later Tolu Arokodare hit the woodwork when Nigeria were trying to add a third goal, while Dupire saved well from a corner.
The win also represented 100 appearances for Moses Simon in the colours of Nigeria while Chelle persisted with his policy of bringing new faces into the Super Eagles fold.
