2027 AFCONQ: Super Eagles Fight Back To Beat Madagascar 2-1 In Uyo

Nigeria’s Super Eagles came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening Group L fixture of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday.

The victory gave Nigeria three points from their opening qualifier, but they were forced to work hard for the result after Madagascar took an early lead.

The Barea stunned the home crowd in the 16th minute when C. Couturier found the breakthrough to put Madagascar 1-0 ahead.

Nigeria struggled to turn their possession into clear chances as Madagascar defended resolutely and threatened to frustrate the hosts.

The Super Eagles, however, drew level just before half-time through G. Ilenikhena, who struck in first-half stoppage time to send the teams into the interval at 1-1.

Nigeria returned for the second half with greater attacking intent and were rewarded in the 65th minute when M. Usor completed the comeback by putting the hosts 2-1 ahead.

The Super Eagles held on through the closing stages despite Madagascar’s efforts to find an equaliser.

The visitors’ N. P. J. Fontaine was booked in the third minute of added time as Nigeria secured all three points at home.

The result means Nigeria begin their campaign with a win, while Madagascar leave Uyo empty-handed.

Nigeria will now turn their attention to their next Group L fixture, an away clash against Guinea-Bissau.

Guinea-Bissau made an impressive start to their campaign on Friday, defeating Tanzania 2-0 away from home to move to the top of the group.

The result sets up an important encounter for the Super Eagles, who will be looking to build on their hard-fought victory in Uyo when they travel to face the group leaders.