Debutants Ilenikhena and Usor seal Nigeria’s comeback against Madagascar
Chidi Okafor
George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored on their senior Nigeria debuts as the Super Eagles came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo on Friday.
Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier began with an early setback at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. Ehsan Kari put Madagascar ahead in the 15th minute, and the visitors held that lead until first-half stoppage time.
Ilenikhena, the 20-year-old Al-Ittihad forward, equalised just before the break. Usor then scored in the 65th minute to secure three points for Nigeria in Group L.
Coach Eric Chelle praised Usor and Moses Simon after the match, singling out their energy and willingness to take on defenders, Daily Post reported.
The goals came with Victor Osimhen absent through a muscle injury. Taiwo Awoniyi had replaced him in the squad, while Ilenikhena and LASK winger Usor were among Chelle’s new invitees.
Nigeria next face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.
Sources: Premium Times, Daily Post
Written by
Chidi Okafor
Sports correspondent covering all kinds of Sports in Nigeria and beyond. Sports Writer at NaijaTrend.
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