The Senior Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development, Prince Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has cautioned the Super Eagles against complacency as they prepare to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Nigeria will start their Group L campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25. Adeboye emphasized the importance of a strong start, warning against a repeat of the lapses that contributed to Nigeria's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles will face Madagascar at home before traveling to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau in their second qualifying fixture. Adeboye urged head coach Éric Chelle and his players to approach both matches with maximum concentration. He stressed that the team should be patriotic and take all the qualifying matches seriously to avoid another disappointing performance. Adeboye's warning comes as a reminder of the team's past mistakes and the need for a renewed sense of focus.
Adeboye also urged the Super Eagles to justify the support provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Nigerian athletes and sportsmen and women. He noted that the President has always supported them financially, morally, and psychologically, and as such, they should reciprocate that gesture by not disappointing Nigerians. The team's performance will be closely watched, and Adeboye's comments highlight the expectations placed on the team.
Adeboye cautioned the three-time African champions against underestimating Madagascar, despite their relatively low FIFA ranking. He noted that the side, coached by Corentin Martins, have made significant progress and would be determined to return to the AFCON after missing the previous edition in Morocco. Madagascar's impressive run at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt, where they reached the quarter-finals, serves as a reminder of their capabilities.
The Super Eagles' match against Madagascar will be particularly significant, given the Barea's past victories against the team. At the 2019 AFCON, Madagascar defeated Nigeria 2-0 in the group stage, a result that highlights the need for the Super Eagles to be on their guard. Adeboye's comments emphasize the importance of preparation and focus.
Adeboye's advice to the Super Eagles comes as they prepare to take on their Group L opponents. With a strong start to their campaign, the team can build momentum and increase their chances of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON. The team's performance will be closely watched, and Adeboye's comments serve as a reminder of the expectations placed on the team.
The Super Eagles will need to put in their best efforts in both Uyo and in their next game against Guinea-Bissau to achieve their goals. With a renewed sense of focus and determination, the team can overcome the challenges ahead and make a strong statement in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
Key points
- Prince Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye warns Super Eagles against complacency in 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
- Super Eagles to begin Group L campaign against Madagascar on September 25.
- Adeboye cautions against underestimating Madagascar despite low FIFA ranking.
