Nigeria's Super Eagles have received a boost with the return of striker Taiwo Awoniyi to the team camp. Awoniyi was recalled to replace the injured Victor Osimhen in Éric Chelle’s squad and has joined the team in Uyo. The team is intensifying preparations for their Group L opener against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Friday. Awoniyi's return provides Chelle with more options for his attacking lineup.
Awoniyi will compete with fellow strikers Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, and George Ilenikhena for a spot in Chelle's attacking plans. The Coventry City forward's experience will be valuable for the team as they begin their competitive campaign. Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the team will look to make a strong start in their AFCON qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles squad continues to take shape with the arrival of captain Wilfred Ndidi and winger Samuel Chukwueze on Tuesday. The pair joined the team at Victor Attah International Airport, bringing the total number of players in camp to 23. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had earlier joined the squad, and the team has already held their first training session in Uyo.
Chelle now has several options to reshape his attack following Osimhen's absence. Awoniyi offers a forward who can compete for the central striking role, while Adams, Arokodare, and Ilenikhena provide further alternatives. The team's coach must decide on the best combination to face Madagascar on Friday.
Nigeria's Super Eagles will host Madagascar on Friday, September 27, before traveling to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau in their second Group L qualifier. The team will look to secure their first three points of the AFCON qualifying campaign. With 23 players now in camp, Chelle has begun the process of selecting the squad.
The presence of Awoniyi and other strikers offers Chelle a range of options for his attacking lineup. The team's performance in the qualifiers will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the next stage. Nigeria's Super Eagles have a tough challenge ahead, but with the right combination, they can make a strong start.
The Super Eagles' preparations are nearing completion, and the team is expected to announce their final squad for the qualifiers. With Awoniyi leading the striker options, Nigeria will look to make a strong impression in their Group L opener against Madagascar. The team's fans will be eagerly awaiting the match, hoping for a positive result.
Key points
- Nigeria's Super Eagles face Madagascar in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Friday.
- Taiwo Awoniyi has returned to the Super Eagles camp and could play a key role in Nigeria's attack.
- Éric Chelle has several options to reshape his attack following Victor Osimhen's absence.
