Usor scores winning goal vs Madagascar, credits Simon for inspiration
Moses Usor came off the bench to score the match‑winning goal in Nigeria’s 2‑1 victory over Madagascar in an AFCON 2027 qualifier played on September 28, 2026. Receiving the ball inside Nigeria’s half, he drove forward, dribbled past two defenders and fired the shot into the net.
The goal secured all three points for the Super Eagles and kept their qualification campaign alive. Usor said he was warming up with Moses Simon when the coach called him, and Simon told him to "just play my game, be myself" and to take the risk when facing a defender one‑on‑one. That advice gave him the confidence to attempt the dribble and finish.
After scoring, Usor fell to his knees to pray, saying he still felt the moment was a dream and thanked God for the opportunity. The win highlights the squad’s depth and the influence of senior players like Simon in lifting younger teammates.
Each win in the qualifiers awards three points toward securing a spot at the finals. The team looks to build on this performance.
What does this victory mean for Nigeria’s chances of reaching the 2027 AFCON finals, and how might the bench contribution shape the team’s strategy moving forward?