Nigeria: George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor hand the Super Eagles victory on debut

25.09.26 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Nigeria

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:

Madagascar

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On their first appearances for the Super Eagles, George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor both found the net against Madagascar. After falling behind, Nigeria secured a 2-1 victory thanks to goals from the two new internationals.

George Ilenikhena scored the equaliser before half-time. On his first appearance for the Super Eagles, the 20-year-old forward helped Nigeria draw level with Madagascar after they had fallen behind.

Born in Lagos and developed in France, Ilenikhena notably played for Amiens before joining Royal Antwerp and then AS Monaco. He now plays for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.

His European career had already taken him to several Champions League matches with Antwerp and Monaco. He notably scored against FC Barcelona while representing both clubs.

Against Madagascar, Ilenikhena therefore added a first goal for the Super Eagles to his career.

Usor puts Nigeria ahead

Moses Usor then took over. Coming on to make his international debut, the LASK forward put Nigeria ahead after a long run.

The player covered around 80 metres before finishing the move and allowing the Super Eagles to take the lead. Like Ilenikhena, Usor therefore scored on his first international appearance.

With goals from their two new internationals, Nigeria came from behind against Madagascar and began their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations