Super Eagles soar back to edge Madagascar in AFCON qualifier

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Nigeria’s Super Eagles came from a goal down to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday.

Madagascar stunned the home crowd in the 16th minute when El Hadary Kari put the visitors ahead, assisted by Rayan Ponti.

Nigeria responded before the break, with Gift Ilenikhena restoring parity in first-half stoppage time after being set up by Alex Iwobi.

The Super Eagles returned for the second half with greater attacking intent and were rewarded in the 65th minute when Moses Usor fired Nigeria into the lead following a pass from Semi Ajayi.

Nigeria then managed the remainder of the game to secure a 2-1 victory and begin their qualifying campaign with three points.

The hosts dominated the statistical numbers, recording 22 shots to Madagascar’s four and enjoying 55 per cent possession. Nigeria also registered four big chances compared with Madagascar’s one.

Super Eagles made several substitutions as the match progressed, with Moses Simon, Terem Moffi, Tolu Arokodare and Bright Osayi-Samuel among those introduced.

Madagascar also made a series of changes in an effort to find an equaliser, but Nigeria held on to claim the win.

The victory at the 30,000-capacity Godswill Akpabio International Stadium gives the Super Eagles an important start to their AFCON qualification campaign.

Super Eagles had trailed for much of the opening half but showed resilience to overturn Madagascar’s early advantage and finish the contest as 2-1 winners.