Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba has offered his assessment of Alex Iwobi’s disallowed goal during Nigeria’s 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener.

 Iwobi thought he had levelled the game in the 34th minute after Madagascar took an early lead, but the effort was ruled out following a foul involving Nigeria forward Akor Adams and the Madagascar goalkeeper.

 While Ikpeba acknowledged there was some contact during the incident, he felt the obstruction was minimal.

 The former Super Eagles forward explained that Adams should have maintained his position in the wide area if he was operating from that position, arguing that the striker moved closer to George Ilenikhena during the build-up to the disallowed goal.

 “It’s true there was a slight obstruction, but it wasn’t significant. I think, before we equalised, as the situation shows, if Akor had to play from the wide area, he had to remain on the wide side. What happened was that he's coming closer to George.”

 Ikpeba also discussed the referee’s decision, pointing out that the incident could have been interpreted differently by other officials.

 “This is the situation we’re talking about. You know, maybe some referees couldn’t have given it, but it’s just slight on the goal. So, I think there’s not enough movement offensively.”

 Despite the disallowed effort, Iwobi made a significant contribution to Nigeria’s comeback on his 101st international appearance.

 The Fulham midfielder provided the assist for George Ilenikhena to score in first-half stoppage time, with the goal marking the youngster’s first for the Super Eagles on his international debut.