Nigeria began their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying campaign with a victory over Madagascar, according to BBC. Debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored for the Super Eagles in the match, the outlet reported.
The result gave Nigeria a winning start in their group. BBC described the game as one in which the two newcomers put Nigeria ahead of Madagascar.
The fixture was part of the opening round of AFCON 2027 qualifiers. According to CAF's official website, Nigeria had to fight back in their match, while Gambia, Rwanda and Guinea-Bissau also made winning starts to the campaign.
Ahead of the game, coverage from allAfrica.com focused on five Madagascar players it said could trouble the Super Eagles, while Flashscore.com reported that Ilenikhena and Usor powered Nigeria past Madagascar in the qualifier opener.
Nigeria's next assignment in the qualifying series is a meeting with Guinea-Bissau, Daily Post Nigeria reported. That match is expected to be the Super Eagles' second outing in the campaign.
The win over Madagascar gives Nigeria early momentum in the group, with the debut goals from Ilenikhena and Usor among the notable outcomes of the match.
What to watch next: Nigeria's qualifying fixture against Guinea-Bissau, where the Super Eagles will look to build on their opening win.