Up to 20 players have arrived at the Super Eagles’ camp in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom state, as head coach Éric Chelle prepares to lead the team into its first training session ahead of Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar. The latest arrivals have brought the number of players in camp to 20, with three more expected to join the squad later on Tuesday, September 22, 2027.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi, forward Samuel Chukwueze and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali are the three players expected to complete the initial group assembled by Chelle for the opening Group L qualifiers. Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday, September 25, before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for the second qualifier on September 29.
Among the players already in camp are forwards Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi, George Ilenikhena, Tolu Arokodare and Ademola Lookman. The presence of Adams will be particularly important for Chelle as he reshapes the attack following the withdrawal of Victor Osimhen through injury. Adams was part of Chelle’s original 24-man squad and remains one of the principal central attacking options available to the coach.
The three players still expected to arrive around midday are captain Ndidi, Chukwueze and Nwabali. Ndidi’s arrival will complete the midfield group alongside Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika, while Nwabali’s arrival will give Chelle all three goalkeeping options originally selected for the qualifiers. Arthur Okonkwo is already in camp and could train alongside the returning Nwabali, with Maduka Okoye also included in the squad.
With the bulk of his squad now assembled, Chelle and his technical crew can begin more detailed preparations for Friday’s encounter. The Super Eagles’ first training session is scheduled for Tuesday, with the coach expected to begin working on the tactical approach for the Madagascar game. The session will also provide an opportunity for the coaching staff to assess the physical condition of the players after their respective journeys from their clubs.
The 20 players currently in camp include a strong group of defenders, with Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredricks, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chibuike Nwaiwu and Bruno Onyemaechi already available to the coach. The defensive group combines established internationals with players who have recently earned opportunities under Chelle.
The encounter with Madagascar represents Nigeria’s first competitive assignment in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles are in Group L alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and Tanzania. Nigeria face important opening test as they look to make a strong start to their campaign against Madagascar at home before travelling to Bissau four days later.
Key points
- - Twenty players have arrived at the Super Eagles’ camp in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom state. - Captain Wilfred Ndidi, forward Samuel Chukwueze and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali are expected to complete the squad. - Nigeria face Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday, September 25.
