The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Nigeria were forced to come from behind after Madagascar took the lead in the 16th minute through Ehsan Kari, who headed past Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The early setback left Nigeria struggling to create clear-cut chances, although the hosts threatened in the 28th minute when a shot from the right flank tested Madagascar goalkeeper Geordan Dupire.
Wilfred Ndidi came close a minute later but headed over the crossbar as the Super Eagles searched for an equaliser.
Nigeria thought they had levelled in the 33rd minute when Alex Iwobi found the back of the net from inside the 18-yard box. However, the goal was disallowed after the referee adjudged Akor Adams to have fouled Dupire.
The Super Eagles eventually found their equaliser in the 45th minute through debutant George Ilenikhena.
The Al Ittihad forward converted an Alex Iwobi pass before firing the ball into the net to restore parity shortly before half-time.
Both teams went into the break level, but Nigeria returned for the second half with increased attacking intensity.
The Super Eagles dominated proceedings in the early stages of the second half, recording 21 touches inside Madagascar’s penalty area compared with just three by their opponents.
Madagascar briefly threatened to regain the lead in the 51st minute, but Nwabali dealt comfortably with Rayan Raveloson’s attempt.
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle made his first substitutions in the 61st minute, introducing Moses Usor and Moses Simon for Samuel Chukwueze and Akor Adams.
The changes paid immediate dividends as Usor scored just minutes after coming on to put the Super Eagles 2-1 ahead.
Chelle later reinforced his attack by bringing on Taiwo Awoniyi and Tolu Arokodare in the 69th minute as Nigeria looked to protect their advantage and secure all three points.
The Super Eagles successfully held on to their lead until the final whistle, earning a winning start to their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.