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

Debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored for Nigeria after Madagascar had taken an early lead, handing the Super Eagles three points in their opening Group L fixture.

Stanley Nwabali and Ola Aina returned to the team after prolonged absences, while Ilenikhena made his international debut in attack in place of injured striker Victor Osimhen.

Moses Simon started on the bench but came on in the second half to earn his 100th cap for the Super Eagles, becoming only the fourth player to reach the milestone.

Nigeria started brightly, with captain Wilfred Ndidi heading wide from an early opportunity, while Madagascar attempted to test Nwabali from distance.

The visitors, however, took the lead against the run of play in the 16th minute. Kari Eshan nodded home from a well-worked short-corner routine to put Madagascar 1-0 ahead.

The Super Eagles responded with increased pressure, as Ndidi and debutant Ilenikhena went close, while Akor Adams failed to find the target after being played into space inside the penalty area.

Nigeria finally drew level on the stroke of halftime.

Alex Iwobi split the Madagascar defence with a precise pass to Ilenikhena, who composed himself inside the box before slotting the ball into the bottom corner for his first international goal.

Madagascar nearly restored its lead shortly after the restart when Hakim Abdallah found himself through on goal following a defensive lapse, but Nwabali made a crucial save at the feet of the striker.

Nigeria coach Chelle then introduced Moses Usor and Moses Simon for Samuel Chukwueze and Adams.

Usor immediately made an impact, creating Nigeria’s next two chances before putting the Super Eagles ahead with a brilliant counterattack.

After winning the ball outside Nigeria’s penalty area following a Madagascar corner, the Austria-based forward drove forward, dribbled into the box and produced a near-post finish that deceived the goalkeeper to make it 2-1.

The goal marked a notable moment for Nigeria, as Ilenikhena and Usor became the first pair of players to score on their Super Eagles debuts in the same match.

Nigeria held on to secure all three points and maintain its unbeaten record against Madagascar in AFCON qualifying.

The result puts the Super Eagles joint-top of Group L alongside Guinea-Bissau, whom Nigeria will face in Bissau on September 29.