Super Eagles begin AFCON qualifiers with 2-1 win against Madagascar

By Tosin Omojola 

Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.

The Super Eagles fell behind in the 15th minute when Ehsan Kari gave Madagascar a shock lead.

Nigeria responded before half-time, with debutant George Ilenikhena equalising to send the teams into the break level at 1-1.

Moses Usor completed the comeback in the 55th minute, scoring the decisive goal to hand the Eagles a winning start to their qualifying campaign.

Nigeria will face Guinea-Bissau in Morocco on Tuesday in their second match of the qualifying series.