Nigeria Survive Madagascar Scare as Five More Nations Start AFCON Campaigns With Wins
Nigeria came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1, while The Gambia, Rwanda, Malawi, Togo and Guinea-Bissau also opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaigns with victories on Friday.
The Super Eagles were stunned when Ehsan Kari gave Madagascar an early lead, but George Ilenikhena levelled before half-time before substitute Moses Usor completed the comeback in the second half.
Nigeria fight back in Uyo
Madagascar took the lead after 16 minutes when Kari finished from Ryan Ponti’s assist.
Nigeria responded just before the break, with Alex Iwobi setting up Ilenikhena for the equaliser.
Usor, introduced from the bench, then made an immediate impact in the 65th minute, converting Semi Ajayi’s pass to put Nigeria ahead.
The Super Eagles held on to begin their Group L campaign with three points.
Guinea-Bissau make statement in Tanzania
Guinea-Bissau also made a winning start, beating Tanzania 2-0 away from home.
Franculino opened the scoring in the 33rd minute before Mama Baldé doubled the advantage 13 minutes into the second half.
With Tanzania already qualified as one of the 2027 AFCON co-hosts, the result could prove important in the battle for the remaining qualification place in Group L.
The Gambia, Rwanda and Malawi also win
The Gambia edged Somalia 2-1 after Ebrima Colley opened the scoring from the penalty spot. Somalia equalised through Bilal Njie, but substitute Muhammed Badamosi restored the Scorpions’ lead in the 83rd minute.
Rwanda produced one of the night’s strongest performances, beating Liberia 3-1. Abeddy Biramahire, Mickels Joy Lance and Jacques were on target for the Amavubi.
In Group B, Malawi defeated South Sudan 2-1. Babatunde Adepoju and Lloyd Njaliwa scored for the Flames after South Sudan briefly levelled through Stephen Joseph Dhata.
Togo edge Burundi
Togo secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Burundi in Group I, with Dermane Karim scoring the decisive goal in the 17th minute.
The Sparrowhawks then defended their advantage to begin their campaign with maximum points.
A busy opening round has already produced plenty of drama, with Nigeria among the sides forced to fight for their points while Guinea-Bissau, Rwanda and the other winners made early statements in their respective groups.
