Nigeria vs Madagascar result: Nigeria defeated Madagascar 2-1 in their CAF Africa Cup of Nations encounter on September 26, 2026. The Super Eagles had to work for the victory after Madagascar equalized early in the second half, but a well-taken goal from Ademola Lookman sealed the points.

Nigeria entered the match as favourites and played like a side determined to control the game. They dominated possession, created the better chances, and looked comfortable for long spells. Madagascar, however, refused to fold, and their resilience made for a tense and entertaining contest.

Match Overview

Nigeria started quickly and took the lead in the 14th minute through Victor Osimhen, who finished clinically after a quick exchange on the edge of the box. The Super Eagles continued to press, with Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze causing problems from wide areas. Madagascar defended in numbers and looked to hit on the break, and their plan paid off in the 49th minute when Njiva Rakotoharimalala equalized with a low shot from the edge of the area.

The equalizer woke Nigeria up. They increased the tempo, moved the ball faster, and pinned Madagascar back. The winning goal came in the 72nd minute when Lookman collected a pass in the half-space, shifted the ball onto his left foot, and curled a shot into the far corner. Madagascar pushed late for another equalizer, but Nigeria managed the closing stages professionally.

Key Moments

• 14’ — Nigeria 1-0: Victor Osimhen opened the scoring with a sharp finish inside the box.
• 49’ — Madagascar 1-1: Njiva Rakotoharimalala equalized with a precise strike from distance.
• 58’ — Nigeria pressure: A series of corners ended with a header cleared off the line.
• 72’ — Nigeria 2-1: Ademola Lookman scored the winner with a curling effort from the left side of the box.
• 88’ — Madagascar chance: A late free-kick forced Nigeria’s goalkeeper into a diving save.

Tactical Story

Nigeria lined up in a 4-2-3-1, with Osimhen leading the line and Lookman drifting inside from the left. Their midfield controlled the rhythm, switching play quickly and allowing the full-backs to push high. Madagascar sat deep in a 5-4-1, sacrificing possession but keeping compact lines. Their equalizer came from a rare moment when Nigeria’s midfield was caught too high up the pitch.

After Madagascar scored, Nigeria’s response was impressive. They stopped forcing passes and instead built patiently, drawing defenders out before playing through the lines. The winning goal was a perfect example of that approach: a simple pass into space, a smart first touch, and a clinical finish.

Standout Players

Victor Osimhen was a constant physical threat and took his goal well. Ademola Lookman was Nigeria’s most creative outlet, scoring the winner and causing problems throughout. Samuel Chukwueze also stretched the Madagascar defence with his dribbling. For Madagascar, Njiva Rakotoharimalala was the standout, scoring a fine goal and leading the counter-attacks. Their goalkeeper made several saves to keep the score respectable.

What It Means for the Africa Cup of Nations Table

Nigeria’s 2-1 win strengthens their position in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations and keeps them on track for a deep run in the tournament. Madagascar can take heart from a disciplined performance, but they will know that narrow defeats in group-stage football can be costly. Both sides now turn their attention to the next round of fixtures, where Nigeria will look to build on this result and Madagascar will aim to bounce back.