2027 AFCONQ: How Super Players Are Rated In 2-1 Victory Over Madagascar

By; Sunny Canto

Amazingly, the Nigeria Super Eagles began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series with a well-deserved 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar at the (Nest of Champions) also known as Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria on Friday 24th September, 2026.

However, they conceded in the 16th minute when Madagascar's Clément Couturier gave the visitors the lead, leaving the Super Eagles under serious pressure at home-soil with millions of supporters.

Excitedly, newly invited George Ilenikhena level terms shortly before first-half stoppage time, scoring on his senior international debut to send both teams into the break level at 1-1.

Eric Sekou Chelle's substitutions also proved decisive, with Moses Usor coming off the bench to score Nigeria's winning goal in the 65th minute.

The LASK forward marked his Super Eagles debut in spectacular fashion, completing the turnaround and securing three points for Nigeria.

The result puts Nigeria on three points in Group L, level with Guinea-Bissau, who defeated Tanzania 2-0 in the other group fixture. Guinea-Bissau lead the early standings on goal difference. Tanzania are already guaranteed a place at the 2027 AFCON finals as one of the three co-hosts, meaning Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar are competing for the group's remaining qualification place.

Super Eagles Player Ratings; 

Stanley Nwabali — 7/10

Nwabali produced a dependable performance between the posts. Although he was beaten by Madagascar's opener, he remained composed and made important interventions after the break as Nigeria protected their lead.

Ola Aina — 6.5/10

Aina's return to the Super Eagles starting lineup provided experience and defensive solidity. He contributed to Nigeria's efforts to contain Madagascar and offered support going forward.

Semi Ajayi — 6.5/10

Ajayi worked hard at the heart of the defence and became increasingly influential as Nigeria took control of the game. He also provided the assist for Usor's winning goal.

Calvin Bassey — 7/10

Bassey was composed defensively and looked comfortable when bringing the ball out from the back. His ability to help Nigeria build from defence was particularly useful as the hosts chased the game.

Bruno Onyemaechi — 6/10

Onyemaechi had a relatively quiet outing compared with some of his defensive teammates but maintained his discipline and contributed to Nigeria's defensive structure.

Wilfred Ndidi — 7/10

The captain provided authority in midfield and helped Nigeria regain control after a difficult opening period. His experience was important as the Super Eagles pushed for the winning goal.

Alex Iwobi — 6.5/10

Iwobi was involved in Nigeria's attacking build-up and supplied the assist for Ilenikhena's equaliser. His passing helped Nigeria find openings against Madagascar's defensive shape.

Samuel Chukwueze — 6/10

Chukwueze showed flashes of his ability, particularly when taking on defenders, but found it difficult to consistently influence the final third.

Ademola Lookman — 5.5/10

Lookman struggled to impose himself on the contest for long periods. Madagascar's compact defensive approach limited his opportunities to make the kind of decisive attacking contribution expected from him.

George Ilenikhena — 8/10

Man of the Match contender. Ilenikhena produced a memorable senior international debut, scoring Nigeria's equaliser in first-half stoppage time.

The Al-Ittihad forward showed composure in front of goal and gave Nigeria an important lift at a crucial moment. His debut goal also made him one of the major talking points from the victory.

Substitute Ratings

Moses Usor — 8/10

Impact substitute. Usor made an immediate impression after coming on, scoring just four minutes after his introduction to put Nigeria ahead.

The LASK forward produced an excellent individual finish to complete Nigeria's comeback and gave Chelle an important attacking option from the bench.

Tolu Arokodare — 5/10

Arokodare worked hard after his introduction but had limited time to make a significant impact on the contest.

Taiwo Awoniyi — 5/10

Awoniyi offered a physical presence in attack after coming on but was unable to add to Nigeria's advantage.

Moses Simon — 5/10

In summary, the icing to the cake was when Moses Simon brought experience and energy to the attack after his introduction. His appearance was also significant as it took him to 100 senior caps for Nigeria, joining an exclusive group that includes Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama, Ahmed Musa and Alex Iwobi.