AFCON 2027: Two debutants, Ilenikhena and Usor, secure a 2-1 victory for Nigeria against Madagascar

Nigeria kicked off their qualifying campaign for the 2027 AFCON with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Madagascar on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, in Group L.

The heroes of the evening were two newcomers: George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, who were playing their first official match for the Super Eagles, scored the two Nigerian goals, according to the Nigerian channel Channels Television.

Madagascar strikes first

Playing without inhibition, the Barea opened the scoring with a header in the 16th minute, following a cross from the right flank.

After being pushed back for long periods, the Nigerians equalized just before the break: in first-half stoppage time, George Ilenikhena finished a move initiated by Alex Iwobi. In the 65th minute, Moses Usor took his chance after winning the ball, raced toward the penalty area, and beat the goalkeeper with a left-footed shot.

A nervous end to the match

Madagascar pushed until the very end to get back into the game, and the website Soccernet reports a tense finish for head coach Éric Chelle's men. However, the most important thing was achieved: three points to launch the campaign and confirmation that the Nigerian talent pool continues to produce new stars.

For Madagascar, the defeat is frustrating but encouraging: the Barea proved they could trouble one of the continent's giants on their own turf.

Next step: Guinea-Bissau

Nigeria will face Guinea-Bissau on September 29, 2026, during the second matchday. The Djurtus also made a successful start by beating Tanzania, one of the three host countries for the 2027 AFCON, 2-0.