Two Nigerian Super Eagles players in white and green kits smile and celebrate together on the pitch after their 2-1 victory over Madagascar in the AFCON 2027 Group L qualifier
Akor Adams embraces Moses after the second goal against Madagascar 

Nigeria’s Super Eagles opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 home win over Madagascar on Friday, 25 September 2026, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. 

The Group L fixture saw the hosts recover from an early deficit in front of a packed crowd. Madagascar’s Ehsan Kari struck in the 16th minute to give the visitors the lead, capitalising on a swift counter. 

Nigeria equalised just before the interval when debutant George Ilenikhena finished in first-half stoppage time, and substitute Moses Usor, another first-time international, scored the winner in the 65th minute after entering the match shortly before.

The match formed the first round of qualifiers for the 2027 tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Nigeria, under coach Eric Chelle and without injured striker Victor Osimhen, controlled much of the possession and created the majority of chances. 

Madagascar goalkeeper Geordan Dupire received a yellow card midway through the first half. Official statistics showed Nigeria with around 59 percent possession and more shots on target. 

Referee Alhadji Allaou Mahamat of Chad oversaw the contest. Both sides sit on three points after matchday one, with Guinea-Bissau topping the group following their earlier win over Tanzania.

Nigeria next travel to face Guinea-Bissau on 29 September, while Madagascar host Tanzania. Only one non-host side from Group L will advance alongside automatic qualifier Tanzania.