Nigeria secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Madagascar to kick-start their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
Allnigeriasoccer.com runs the rule over the sixteen Super Eagles players in action at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
The starters
Goalkeeper
Stanley Nwabali (7.5/10): His early heroics set the tone, producing a brilliant early save to deny Madagascar and made a confident return to the Super Eagles.
Semi Ajayi (6.5/10): Dominant in the air, but exposed at the back. Ajayi was a commanding presence aerially, although he will rue Nigeria’s defending for Madagascar’s opener. The Hull City man provided the game-winning assist for Usor's debut goal.
Calvin Bassey (6.5/10). Bassey delivered a strong physical and defensive display, standing firm whenever Madagascar threatened.
Ola Aina (6/10): Aina put in a decent all-round performance, contributing at both ends of the pitch.
Bruno Onyemaechi (7/10): Defensive discipline on display. Onyemaechi worked hard to contain Madagascar’s attacking threat and provided Nigeria with defensive stability.
Midfielders and forwards
Wilfred Ndidi (7/10): Ndidi worked tirelessly in midfield but will be disappointed that he could not convert his first-half opportunity.
Alex Iwobi (7 /10): Creative spark behind Nigeria’s comeback. Iwobi was one of Nigeria’s main creative outlets and brilliantly set up the Super Eagles’ opening goal.
Ademola Lookman (4.5/10): An evening to forget. Lookman struggled to influence proceedings before being withdrawn in the second half.
Samuel Chukwueze (6/10): Dangerous but lacking the finishing touch. Chukwueze looked lively in attack and created problems, although his final decision-making let him down.
George Ilenikhena (8/10): Dream debut for the former Monaco striker. Ilenikhena announced himself on the international stage in style, scoring a superb first Super Eagles goal.
Akor Adams (5/10): Unable to make his mark. Adams endured a frustrating evening, struggling to impose himself or make a meaningful attacking contribution.
The substitutes
Moses Simon (6/10): 100th cap marked with attacking energy, Simon brought fresh energy after coming on and helped Nigeria maintain a threat in attack.
Moses Usor (8.5/10): Usor made an instant impact, rounding off an impressive introduction with an excellent solo finish.
Tolu Arokodare (5/10). Arokodare injected fresh energy into the attack but will be disappointed not to have converted his chances.
Taiwo Awoniyi (5/10): Awoniyi marked his return with a lively cameo, giving Nigeria another attacking option in the closing stages.
Bright Osayi-Samuel (N/A): Osayi-Samuel came on late and did his part as Nigeria held on to secure all three points.
Adeyemi Adewale
Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com
Discussions (0)