News Investigators/ The Super Eagles of Nigeria came from a goal down to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their Group L 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
The match was played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday evening.
Madagascar took the lead in the 15th minute through a well-directed header by defender Ehsan Kari from a corner kick to temporarily silence the home fans.
The Super Eagles fought back and missed several scoring chances before debutant George Ilenikhena equalised for Nigeria in the 45th minute to end the first half at 1-1.
The second half started with Coach Eric Chelle making some substitutions, which paid off in the 74th minute when another debutant, Moses Usor, gave Nigeria the lead.
Both teams continued to fight for goals, but goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali denied the Madagascar captain in a one-on-one situation as the match ended 2-1 in regulation time.
Chelle said he was not impressed with the performance of his players despite securing the three points.
He said the team started well but failed to convert its scoring chances before making a mistake that allowed Madagascar to take the lead.
“Technically, we weren’t very good. That’s why we fought back to level the score. I loved the state of mind of my players.
“They gave everything for the jersey and the country, and I was very happy because this team wants to bring something new,” Chelle said.
The coach commended goalkeeper Nwabali for denying the visitors a clear scoring opportunity.
Chelle admitted that the match was not easy because Madagascar brought out their best for the encounter.
“I am happy, but we have another game in a few days and we have to work on our game project and improve,” he said.
The coach assured Nigerians that the team would continue to improve with the new players he brought in.
Also speaking, Moses Simon, who earned his 100th cap for Nigeria in the match, gave glory to God, the coach, the media and Nigerians for their support.
On his part, Corentin Martins, Head Coach of Madagascar, who spoke through an interpreter, said the result was difficult for his team to accept.
“We had an opportunity to make it 2-1, but we failed to take our chance. We scored from the corner kick, which was part of our game plan.
“When you play against a highly tactical side like Nigeria with good players, you need to give your best. Unfortunately, our best wasn’t good enough,” Martins said.
He attributed the loss to fatigue among his players, which he said prevented them from consolidating their lead.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Guinea-Bissau tops the group with three points, Super Eagles second with three points, Tanzania third while Madagascar are bottom with no point.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) also reports that Moses Simon was celebrated for achieving his 100th cap for Nigeria.
NAN
