Nigeria’s Super Eagles came from a goal down to beat Madagascar on Matchday 1 of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
With the Nigerian football faithful still smarting from the disappointment of missing two consecutive FIFA World Cups, the win was necessary as the team campaign for an appearance at the tournament to be held in Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya.
Newslegend NG presents the five takeaways from the game at the Godswll Akpabio Stadium.
Super Eagles foes hold no Uyo fears
The Barea of Madagascar defeated Nigeria 2-0 at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt.
The game on Friday evening was more of a new start rather than a payback due to the long period.
However what was obvious is that teams no longer come to Uyo and play with a lack of freedom.
The Super Eagles have lost crucial games in Uyo and that hold, no nonsense display shone through when Madagascar played.
Debut goals for Ilekihena, Usor
The duo of George Ilekihena and Moses Usor made their Super Eagles debuts on Friday evening and capped that with the two crucial goals that saved the blushes of the three-time African champions.
Ilekihena restored parity in the first half while second half substitute Usor slalomled his way past his markers to find the near post.
Ilekihena in particular has proven to be a good alternative to the injured Victor Osimhen.
Nwabali saved the Eagles
The first choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made a fabulous save in the second half to deny Madagascar a possible second goal.
That saw the Eagles maintain their lead with the score at 2-1 heading into Tuesday’s second Group L game for Nigeria against Guinea-Bissau.
Supporters’ Patience
The Super Eagles Supporters Clubs and Fan groups sang and drummed for most parts of the game even when the Eagles went 1-0 down.
It seemed the fans were certain that the Eagles will bounce back from the deficit.
Their patience paid off in the end.
Akor, Lookman Average
The duo of Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman did not have the best of games on Friday.
They missed clear cut chances and trouble Madagascar goalkeeper, Geordan Dupire.
They need to improve on their performances on Tuesday against Guinea-Bissau.
