Moses Usor scored the decisive goal on his Super Eagles debut as Nigeria came from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
The match took place on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. Madagascar took the lead in the 16th minute through Ehsan Kari. Fellow debutant George Ilenikhena equalized just before halftime. Usor, a 24-year-old winger with Austrian club LASK, entered as a substitute for Samuel Chukwueze in the 61st minute and struck four minutes later.
Usor collected the ball deep in Nigeria’s half, drove forward on a long solo run, beat defenders, and finished with a composed left-footed shot. The goal secured the three points for head coach Eric Chelle’s side.
In comments after the match, Usor said the coach simply told him to go out and show what he could do. “I was not nervous, I was hungry,” he explained. “The team needed a moment, and I wanted to be the one to give it to them. I have waited for this chance my whole career.” He added that seeing the ball go in on his first appearance for Nigeria, with the home fans present, was a moment he would never forget.
The LASK forward, a product of the 36 Lion academy in Lagos, has started the season strongly with three goals and five assists in 12 appearances. He later posted on media his gratitude to the coaching staff, teammates, and supporters, writing that the scoring debut “means a lot.” Nigeria next face Guinea-Bissau in their Group L qualifier on Tuesday as they continue their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.
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