Moses Usor and George Ilenikhena announced themselves on the international stage in emphatic fashion, scoring on their Super Eagles debuts as Nigeria fought back to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, qualifier in Uyo.
The two youngsters delivered memorable performances at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with both finding the net in a night that marked a significant milestone in their international careers.
Ilenikhena, the Al-Ittihad forward, struck Nigeria’s equaliser after Madagascar had taken an early lead, showing composure to restore parity before the break.
Usor then completed Nigeria’s comeback in the second half with a stunning solo effort that sent the home crowd into celebration.
The LASK winger collected the ball, drove into the Madagascar penalty area, skilfully dribbled past the opposition defence before calmly picking his spot and producing a superb finish to put the Super Eagles ahead.
It was a dream start to international football for Usor, who received a late call-up to the squad after Femi Azeez was withdrawn following advice from Brighton & Hove Albion’s medical team that he needed adequate rest during the international break to fully regain his fitness.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle subsequently drafted Usor into the squad, and the winger seized his opportunity when introduced in the second half.
Usor injected pace, energy and directness into Nigeria’s attack before delivering the decisive moment with a brilliant individual goal.
For Ilenikhena, his debut was equally memorable. The young striker demonstrated his predatory instincts by responding to Madagascar’s early advantage and finding the crucial equaliser.
The performances of both debutants provided an encouraging dimension to Nigeria’s attacking options as the Super Eagles opened their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign with three points.
For Usor and Ilenikhena, however, the significance goes beyond the result.
One came off the bench to score a spectacular winning goal, while the other marked his first appearance for Nigeria with a crucial equaliser.
Two debuts. Two goals. One memorable Super Eagles night in Uyo.
