CAF praises Moses Usor after ‘one-man show’ earns Nigeria victory

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has praised Moses Usor for the goal that helped Nigeria begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with victory over Madagascar.

Usor made his Super Eagles debut in Friday’s Group L matchday-one fixture in Uyo, entering the game in the 61st minute as a substitute for Samuel Chukwueze.

Just four minutes later, the winger gave Nigeria the lead at 2-1 with an impressive individual effort. Usor collected the ball inside his own half before driving towards the left flank and progressing into the Madagascar penalty area.

He then beat two defenders before sending a low left-footed shot into the net.

CAF highlighted the goal on X, describing it as: “A one-man show from Moses Usor, finished in style on Nigeria’s road through the #TotalEnergiesAFCON2027 qualifiers. ????”

The strike came on a notable debut for Usor, who will hope to produce another influential display when the Super Eagles return to qualifying action against Guinea-Bissau on matchday two on Tuesday, September 29.

Nigeria’s other debutant, George Ilenikhena, was also on the scoresheet. He equalised for the Eagles one minute into first-half added time.

The result gave the Super Eagles a winning start in Group L, with Usor’s goal providing the decisive moment after he was introduced from the bench.

Usor’s performance has drawn recognition from CAF after the 22-year-old made an immediate impact in his first appearance for Nigeria.