Nigeria returns to 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying action on Tuesday against Guinea-Bissau, seeking to build on their 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar. The Super Eagles secured their win with goals from George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, who scored on their debuts in Uyo. Other notable performers include Alex Iwobi, Stanley Nwabali, and Calvin Bassey. However, Nigeria's performance was far from perfect, as they conceded first and struggled to create consistently.
Moses Usor, the LASK winger, made an instant impact on his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar, scoring in just four minutes. His pace, directness, and ability to attack defenders gave Nigeria another dimension. Usor's strong club credentials, having helped LASK win the Austrian league and cup double last season, make him a threat that Guinea-Bissau will need to contend with. The question is whether coach Eric Chelle will reward Usor with a starting place against Guinea-Bissau.
Calvin Bassey, the Fulham captain, was one of Nigeria's most assured performers against Madagascar, providing strength and composure alongside Semi Ajayi. However, he was involved in the defensive lapse that allowed Madagascar to score. Against Guinea-Bissau, Bassey will need to anticipate danger and keep Nigeria's backline organised, particularly with the likes of Beto, Mama Baldé, and Franculino Djú providing pace, movement, and physicality in attack.
Stanley Nwabali, the Chippa United goalkeeper, returned to the Super Eagles goal against Madagascar and produced a crucial save to deny Rayan Raveloson in a one-on-one situation. Nwabali's performance could be crucial again in Bissau, as Nigeria are likely to face spells of pressure away from home. With Maduka Okoye also competing for the position, another strong performance would strengthen Nwabali's claim to remain Chelle's first choice.
Moses Simon, who celebrated his 100th Super Eagles appearance against Madagascar, remains a valuable asset to Chelle's attack. The winger's pace, direct running, and ability to beat defenders make him a threat, while his experience can still bring a significant impact. Simon came off the bench against Madagascar and added fresh energy, which could give Chelle reason to consider a different attacking setup against Guinea-Bissau.
The challenge for Chelle's Super Eagles against Guinea-Bissau will be to produce a more complete performance than against Madagascar. Nigeria must be sharper in possession, tighter defensively, and more clinical in front of goal. The encouraging part is that Chelle now has more options, with Ilenikhena and Usor announcing themselves, Bassey and Nwabali providing stability, and Simon offering experience and another attacking route.
The objective for Nigeria in Bissau is simple: secure another three points and take another step towards AFCON 2027. With the Super Eagles stars Moses Usor, Calvin Bassey, Stanley Nwabali, and Moses Simon poised to make an impact, Nigeria will look to build on their momentum from the Madagascar match and make it two wins from two in the qualifying campaign.
Key points
- Nigeria faces Guinea-Bissau in AFCON 2027 qualifier, seeking to build on their 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar.
- Super Eagles stars Moses Usor, Calvin Bassey, Stanley Nwabali, and Moses Simon are poised to make an impact against Guinea-Bissau.
- Nigeria must be sharper in possession, tighter defensively, and more clinical in front of goal against Guinea-Bissau.
