Nigerian Shanghai Shenhua forward Odion Ighalo came off the bench to score the goal that gave former champions Nigeria a 1-0 victory over stubborn minnows Burundi on Saturday in the opening Africa Cup of Nations Group B match.
He struck the 77th-minute winner. The debutantes Burundi battled bravely against the Eagles throughout before a small crowd that included four-time African Footballer of the Year Samuel Eto’o from Cameroon, one of the tournament ambassadors.
Madagascar National team marked their Africa Cup of Nations debut with a draw against Group B opponents Guinea in Alexandria, Egypt.
Sory Kaba had put Guinea ahead after 34 minutes, but Madagascar responded with two goals in six second-half minutes through Anicet Andrianantenaina and Charles Carolus Andriamahitsinoro.
Francois Kamano's 66th-minute penalty earned a point for Guinea, after Romain Metanire had fouled Ibrahima Traore.
Guinea face Nigeria next on Wednesday (15:30 BST), while Madagascar take on fellow debutantes Burundi on Thursday (15:30).
Madagascar National team marked their Africa Cup of Nations debut with a draw against Group B opponents Guinea in Alexandria, Egypt.
Sory Kaba had put Guinea ahead after 34 minutes, but Madagascar responded with two goals in six second-half minutes through Anicet Andrianantenaina and Charles Carolus Andriamahitsinoro.
Francois Kamano's 66th-minute penalty earned a point for Guinea, after Romain Metanire had fouled Ibrahima Traore.
Guinea face Nigeria next on Wednesday (15:30 BST), while Madagascar take on fellow debutantes Burundi on Thursday (15:30).
Super Eagles remained the favourites to top the group B. Bookmakers have made Nigeria fourth-favourites at 9/1 to win the competition, behind hosts and record seven-time champions Egypt, Senegal and Ghana.
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