Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has admitted he was left stunned by Moses Usor’s brilliant solo goal in Nigeria’s 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Nigeria fell behind early at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday but responded strongly to secure all three points in their Group L opener.
Madagascar took the lead in the 16th minute when Ehsan Kari headed home from a well-executed set piece.
The Super Eagles eventually found their equaliser in first-half stoppage time, with debutant George Ilenikhena calmly finishing an Alex Iwobi through ball to make it 1-1.
With the match finely balanced, head coach Eric Chelle turned to Usor in the second half, introducing the LASK winger as a replacement for Samuel Chukwueze.
The 23-year-old needed only a few minutes to make an immediate impact.
Receiving possession close to the edge of Nigeria’s own penalty area, Usor embarked on a powerful run through the Madagascar defence, carrying the ball deep into opposition territory before cutting inside and firing a low left-footed shot into the near post in the 65th minute.
The goal completed Nigeria’s comeback and sparked celebrations inside the Uyo stadium.
Aina, who started at full-back, was particularly impressed by the newcomer’s confidence to attempt such a run under the pressure of his international debut.
“He kept going, and I was wondering where he was going. So when it landed in the net, I was left stunned that his debut man and he did that at home under pressure. That’s some talent there,” Ola Aina
Usor’s debut goal made the evening even more memorable for Nigeria’s newcomers, with Ilenikhena also finding the net on his first appearance for the Super Eagles.
The pair stepped up in the absence of injured striker Victor Osimhen, providing Chelle with further attacking options ahead of the remainder of the qualifying campaign.
The match also marked a significant milestone for Moses Simon, who came off the bench to earn his 100th international cap for Nigeria.
The victory gives the Super Eagles a winning start to their road to the 2027 AFCON and provides Chelle with plenty of encouragement from his new additions.
For Usor, however, his spectacular debut has already ensured that his name will be remembered from one of Nigeria’s most memorable opening qualifying nights in recent years.
