Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has challenged Nigeria to show a strong mentality when they face Guinea-Bissau in Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The match, scheduled for the Estádio 24 de Setembro in Bissau, marks Matchday 2 of Group L. Both teams enter the clash with victories in their opening qualifying fixtures. Nigeria came from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo, with George Ilenikhena scoring his first senior international goal and Moses Usor marking his senior debut with the winning goal.
Guinea-Bissau also made an impressive start, securing a 2-0 away victory over Tanzania. Franculino Djú and Mama Baldé were on target for the Djurtus. This win has given Guinea-Bissau added confidence, according to Chelle. The Nigeria coach expects a difficult encounter in Bissau, given the Djurtus' strong performance on home soil. Chelle has followed the progress of Guinea-Bissau over the years and is aware of the threat they pose.
Chelle emphasized the importance of a strong mentality for his team, stating that their objective is to take the three points. To achieve this, Nigeria must approach the game with a strong mentality and be at their best to earn victory. The coach made these comments at Monday’s pre-match press conference. With both teams having three points after the opening round of matches, the result in Bissau could give either side an early advantage in the group.
Beyond the opposition, Nigeria will also have to contend with the playing surface at the Estádio 24 de Setembro. Chelle acknowledged the condition of the pitch but insisted that it must not become a distraction for his players. The Super Eagles held their official training session at the stadium on Monday evening, with all 24 invited players taking part in the 65-minute session. The team trained under a light shower of rain as preparations intensified for their first away test of the qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles' training session was a significant milestone, as it marked their final preparation before the match. The team will be hoping to maintain their winning start when they face the Djurtus on Tuesday. Kick-off is scheduled for 5pm Nigerian time on Tuesday, September 29. Nigeria's victory in the opening match was a notable achievement, particularly given the team's ability to come from behind and win.
The match against Guinea-Bissau is a crucial test for Nigeria, as they seek to build on their momentum. The Djurtus' opening-day victory over Tanzania has given them confidence, and Chelle believes they will be a formidable opponent on home soil. Nigeria's coach has urged his team to be focused and determined, as they aim to secure a second consecutive win in the qualifying campaign.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau promises to be an exciting encounter. With both teams having momentum from their opening wins, the match could set the tone for the rest of the qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles will need to be at their best to overcome the challenges posed by Guinea-Bissau, both on and off the pitch.
Key points
- Éric Chelle warns Nigeria to show strong mentality against Guinea-Bissau.
- Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau both have three points after the opening round of matches.
- The match is scheduled for the Estádio 24 de Setembro in Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.
