The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

Madagascar took an early lead, but Nigeria responded through debutant George Ilenikhena before another newcomer, Moses Usor, scored the winning goal in the second half to secure all three points for Eric Chelle’s side.

The visitors stunned the home crowd in the 16th minute when Ehsan Kari headed home from a set-piece situation to give Madagascar the advantage.

Nigeria struggled to turn its possession into clear chances in the opening stages and briefly thought it had equalised when Alex Iwobi found the net in the 34th minute. The goal, however, was ruled out after Akor Adams was adjudged to have fouled the Madagascar goalkeeper.

The Super Eagles eventually found their breakthrough in first-half stoppage time.

Ilenikhena, making his senior international debut, was played through by Iwobi before calmly finishing to restore parity and send Nigeria into the interval level at 1-1.

Nigeria returned from the break with greater attacking intent and continued to put pressure on the visitors.

The decisive moment came in the 65th minute when Moses Usor, another player making his senior debut, put Nigeria ahead with an impressive individual effort.

Usor collected the ball following a Madagascar corner, drove forward and beat defenders before firing a left-footed effort beyond goalkeeper Geordan Dupire.

Madagascar pushed for an equaliser, but Nigeria held on to claim the opening three points of its Group L campaign.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also played an important role in the victory, making a crucial save early in the second half when Rayan Raveloson found himself through on goal.

The match also provided a landmark moment for Moses Simon, who made his 100th appearance for Nigeria after coming on in the second half.

Simon became only the fifth Nigerian player to reach the century mark for the Super Eagles, joining Ahmed Musa, Vincent Enyeama, Joseph Yobo and Alex Iwobi in the exclusive group. Musa remains Nigeria’s most-capped player with 110 appearances.

The victory gives Nigeria three points from its opening qualifier, level with Guinea-Bissau, who also began their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Tanzania. Guinea-Bissau currently lead the group on goal difference.

Nigeria will next travel to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, in what will be the Super Eagles’ second Group L qualifying fixture.