Prince Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, has called on the Super Eagles to avoid a shaky start in their 2027 AFCON qualifiers. The team will face Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Friday. Adeboye emphasized the importance of patriotism and taking all qualifying matches seriously. He drew lessons from Nigeria's missed opportunity in the last World Cup qualifiers co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Super Eagles will also engage Guinea-Bissau in their second game of the series in Bissau a few days after the Madagascar match. Adeboye advised the team, led by Coach Eric Chelle, to learn from past experiences and approach the qualifiers with a winning mentality. He stressed that the team's performance will reflect the support they have received from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has prioritized the welfare of sportsmen and women in Nigeria.
President Tinubu's efforts to improve the welfare of athletes have been multifaceted, including financial, moral, and psychological support. Adeboye urged the Super Eagles to reciprocate this support by delivering outstanding performances. He reminded the team that their success will not only bring pride to Nigeria but also validate the government's investment in sports development.
Madagascar, ranked 104 by FIFA, is not an opponent to be underestimated, according to Adeboye. Despite their low ranking, the team has improved significantly and will not take anything for granted. The Malagasy team, coached by Corentin Martins, participated in the 2019 AFCON edition in Egypt, where they reached the quarter-finals.
The Super Eagles must be cautious of Madagascar's confidence boost from their past successes, particularly their 2-0 win against Nigeria in the group stage of the 2019 edition. Adeboye emphasized that the team must put in their best effort in both the Uyo and Bissau matches to secure a favorable outcome.
The 2027 AFCON will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Adeboye's advice to the Super Eagles is timely, as the team seeks to qualify for the tournament. By heeding his counsel, the team can avoid a repeat of past disappointments and make a strong statement in the qualifiers.
The Super Eagles' upcoming matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will be crucial in determining their chances of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON. With Adeboye's guidance, the team is expected to approach the games with renewed focus and determination. The outcome of these matches will be closely watched by Nigerian fans and sports enthusiasts.
Key points
- Adeboye urges Super Eagles to avoid complacency and take all qualifying matches seriously.
- President Tinubu has prioritized the welfare of sportsmen and women in Nigeria, providing financial, moral, and psychological support.
- Madagascar, despite being ranked 104 by FIFA, has improved significantly and will not be an easy opponent for the Super Eagles.
