Madagascar midfielder Rayan Raveloson has expressed confidence ahead of his team's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener against Nigeria in Uyo on Friday. Raveloson, who plays for Amedspor in the Turkish Super Lig, believes his team is not intimidated by the Super Eagles' star-studded squad. He made the statement as Madagascar arrived in Nigeria on Monday, a day before the Super Eagles began arriving.
Nigeria will be without striker Victor Osimhen, who has been ruled out with an injury. However, Raveloson insists that Madagascar are not scared of facing Nigeria, regardless of the big names in the Eagles squad. "Osimhen is a big player and everyone knows him. We are not scared. It’s football and they are humans like us. Everyone wants to win, but sometimes you have to lose to learn," he told Football Temple.
Madagascar, ranked 104th in the latest FIFA rankings, have a squad comprising largely players based in European lower divisions and African leagues. The Barea will hope to carry the momentum from their recent run at the African Nations Championship, where they reached the final, into their AFCON qualifying campaign. They are seeking to qualify for only their second AFCON tournament after making their debut in 2019.
In their previous meeting in AFCON qualifying, Nigeria defeated Madagascar home and away during the qualifying series for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, although the Eagles ultimately failed to qualify for the tournament. However, Madagascar recorded a famous 2-0 victory over Nigeria in the group stage of the 2019 tournament in Egypt.
The Madagascar Football Federation appointed Corentin Martins as head coach in January 2025, with qualification for the 2027 AFCON among his key objectives. Martins and his players have little recovery time between their opening two matches, as they take on Tanzania next week.
Raveloson and his teammates are eager to build on their recent success, having reached the final of the African Nations Championship. The Barea's squad has a mix of experienced and young players, all of whom are determined to cause an upset against the Super Eagles.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign is a crucial one for both Nigeria and Madagascar. The Super Eagles are looking to bounce back from a disappointing campaign, while Madagascar aims to make a lasting impression on the continental stage. The match between the two teams will be an exciting encounter, with both teams eager to secure a win.
Key points
- Madagascar midfielder Rayan Raveloson says his team is not afraid of Nigeria's star-studded squad.
- Nigeria will be without striker Victor Osimhen due to an injury.
- Madagascar are seeking to qualify for only their second AFCON tournament.
