<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Godswill_Akpabio_International_Stadium_1.jpg">Ei'eke / Wikimedia Commons</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>. File photo taken in 2021; no changes.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, 25 September 2026, opening their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with three points.
Madagascar gave the home crowd an early scare. Ehsan Kari put the visitors ahead in the 16th minute after a move involving Ryan Ponti. Nigeria had to wait until first-half stoppage time for a reply, when Alex Iwobi set up debutant George Ilenikhena to make it 1-1.
Another debutant settled the contest after the break. Moses Usor replaced Samuel Chukwueze and struck in the 65th minute from a pass by Semi Ajayi, completing the comeback for Eric Chelle’s side.
Winning start in Group L
The result puts Nigeria on three points in Group L. Guinea-Bissau also won their opening match, beating Tanzania 2-0 away from home on Friday. The Super Eagles are due to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, 29 September.
For supporters in Akwa Ibom, the victory added another international football night to Uyo’s record as a home venue for the national team. Nigeria made the start it needed despite the absence of injured striker Victor Osimhen, with two new faces providing the goals.
Match: Nigeria 2-1 Madagascar | Scorers: George Ilenikhena, Moses Usor; Ehsan Kari | Competition: 2027 AFCON qualifying, Group L.
Match details: CAF match report. Featured image: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, photographed in 2021. Ei'eke / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. No changes.
