Madagascar almost ensured Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying series with a disaster.
Ehsan Kari headed the Barea in front as early as the 16th minute.
It was a goal that stunned the home supporters inside the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
Fans could be forgiven for feeling déjà vu, especially as the Super Eagles bungled most of their home fixtures before ultimately failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
But debutants saved the day for Eric Chelle’s men, as George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored either side of the interval to ensure maximum points.
“It was a hard-fought victory for the Super Eagles, thanks to the efforts of the debutants, George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor,” Ope Adebari, a sports analyst, reporter and producer with News Central told DAILY POST.
“The performance was not convincing, sadly.
“Personally, I think the major reason why the Super Eagles seem to always have to grind out victories under Eric Chelle is because of the system of football, which, in my opinion, limits the players.
“As they have shown under Eric Chelle several times, the boys once again were resilient and determined to change the game.
“They were clearly determined to get a win.”
Despite these limitations, some of the players put in fine performances.
“In no particular order, the standout players for me were Stanley Nwabali, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Moses Usor and George Ilenikhena,” Adebari said.
“I don’t think we missed Victor Osimhen today, thanks to the presence of George Ilenikhena.”
Ilenikhena will be expected to lead the line when Nigeria travel to face Guinea-Bissau.
The game on Tuesday will be a fight for early leadership in Group L, as the Djurtus beat co-hosts Tanzania 2-0 to sit in first place on goal difference.
Adebari has warned that this will be a much harder game for the Super Eagles.
“I think it will be a really tough game,” he said.
“Nigeria need to be clinical in front of goal to stand a chance of getting three points.
“The midfield will need to be stronger as well in order for us to control the game and create chances.”