Daily Post reports that Nigeria recovered from an early deficit to beat Madagascar 2-1 in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
The match opened when Madagascar took the lead through Kari Eshan, but Nigeria replied with goals from debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor to secure the win, Daily Post reports (S1, S2).
Coaches’ reactions
Madagascar head coach Corentin Martins told reporters he felt his side performed well in the first half but faded after the break. Martins said, “We played a game with Nigeria with good players. We also want to be tactical. We were good with the ball in the first half; we went with the ball well, and in the second half, we were physically tired.” He added that his team made moves to try to win but were not consistent throughout the game, Daily Post reports (S1).
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle praised his squad’s spirit and highlighted the presence of striker Victor Osimhen at the stadium. Chelle said, “I was very happy that Victor [Osimhen] was here. It shows that this group is trying to move forward and build something new. I am very proud of the team’s spirit,” Daily Post reports (S2).
Players and selections
Daily Post reports that Osimhen did not play because of a groin injury. The striker, who plays for Galatasaray, was in the Super Eagles squad but was replaced in the matchday squad by Taiwo Awoniyi after sustaining the injury while playing for his club earlier in the month (S2).
Chelle also singled out goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali for praise after a crucial second-half save. “Nwabali did well because they had a chance to score a goal, but Nwabali at this moment practically was very good,” Chelle said, Daily Post reports (S3).
Daily Post adds that Nwabali will hope to keep his place when Nigeria face Guinea-Bissau in their next qualifier on Tuesday (S3).
Featured image: Ei’eke via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
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