The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a narrow 2-1 win over Madagascar on Friday, September 25, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Madagascar surprisingly took the lead through Ehsan Kari's 16th-minute header, but Nigeria equalized in first-half stoppage time through debutant George Ilenikhena.
From Positive NG Vibes
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Nigeria then scored the winning goal in the 65th minute through fellow debutant Moses Usor's solo effort.
Positive NG Vibes monitored every minute of the encounter and observed the following:
1. Hardworking Ilenikhena
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle started George Ilenikhena despite it being his first time with the team.
The Al-Ittihad striker repaid his coach's trust with an impressive display from the first whistle.
He was involved in virtually every attacking move the team made in the first half and came close to scoring on multiple occasions.
His header went wide of the target before a near-post effort was saved by the Madagascar goalkeeper.
He eventually found the back of the net in first-half stoppage time, latching onto a pass from Alex Iwobi before finishing calmly past goalkeeper Geordan Dupire.
His goal ensured Nigeria went into the break level with the visitors. Aside from his goal, the 20-year-old striker was full of energy, involved in multiple tackles and duels.
2. Improved Second Half
The Super Eagles were better in the second half, showing more intent after the break, playing with greater speed, and creating more chances.
Their dominance eventually paid off in the 65th minute when Moses Usor scored a brilliant solo goal.
Eric Chelle's side could have scored more had their strikers been more clinical in front of goal.
3. The Debutants Prove Their Worth
Two debutants, two goals — that sums up how important Ilenikhena and Usor were to the side against Madagascar.
Ilenikhena showed his quality from the start, while Usor influenced the outcome from the bench.
While it's still early, it's safe to say both players have earned their place in subsequent matches.
4. Moses Simon Joins The 100-Club
Friday marked a milestone achievement for Moses Simon, who made his 100th appearance for the three-time African champions.
The Paris FC winger, who made his Super Eagles debut in 2015 against Uganda, came on in the second half for his 100th cap and was presented with a symbolic plaque marking the achievement.
The former Nantes winger has scored 10 international goals in his century of appearances for the Super Eagles.
5. The Ever-Reliable Calvin Bassey
Though Nigeria's defence lost concentration in the build-up to Madagascar's goal, Calvin Bassey was rock-solid for the rest of the game.
The Fulham defender was in excellent form throughout the encounter, repeatedly stopping the Madagascar players from getting past his position.
He recorded two interceptions and completed the highest number of passes in the match, with a 94% pass accuracy rate.
His surging runs added an extra attacking threat while keeping the backline compact. His header, however, was saved by Madagascar goalkeeper Geordan Dupire.
A gritty comeback, two debutant goals, and a Moses Simon milestone gave Nigeria's AFCON qualifying campaign a promising but hard-fought start.
