Super Eagles new boys George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor powered Nigeria past a stubborn Madagascar side in the opening match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Uyo, Friday.
The Super Eagles survived an early scare after Madagascar ranked 104 in the world took the lead.
Ehsan Kari's 16 minute header caught the Nigerian defence flatfooted and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali rooted to the spot.
Despite going behind, the Super Eagles had dictated play and soon resumed their slow build up as they hunted for an equalizer.
Eventually the moment came, and it was 20 year-old Ilenikhena whose intelligent run found him in space, picking up a through pass from Alex Iwobi.
The Forward had all the time in the world and he buried the ball with some finesse to draw Nigeria level in added time of the first half.
After the break the Super Eagles maintained their and Eric Chelle made two tactical changes, replacing Akor Adams and Samuel Chukwueze for Moses Simon and Moses Usor respectively.
Four minutes later Usor scored on his debut from winning a 1v1 duel before he slammed into the back of the net from the near post.
There were few clear cut chances afterwards and though the Super Eagles' scanty midfield held its own, Chelle will heave a sigh of relief after Chadian Referee Alhadi Mahamat sounded the final whistle.
Nigeria started off on a winning note but already trail in Group L after Guinea Bissau's 2-0 victory over Tanzania.
Next is a crunch fixture on Tuesday between Nigeria and Guinea Bissau.
Nigeria Starting XI vs Madagascar:
Nwabali, Ajayi, Bassey, Aina, Onyemeachi, Ndidi, Iwobi, Lookman, Chukwueze, Ilenikhena (45+1'), Akor
Substitute:
Simon, Usor (65'), Awoniyi, Arokodare, Osayi-Samuel
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