The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to kick off their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a crucial match against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on September 25, 2026. Head Coach Éric Chelle has emphasized the importance of starting strong, stating that the team must show their determination from the outset to avoid a late struggle for qualification. The Super Eagles will be looking to make a statement in their first two matches against Madagascar and Guinea Bissau.
The Super Eagles will be boosted by the return of key players, including defender Ola Aina, utility player Benjamin Fredricks, and forward Taiwo Awoniyi, who has been drafted in due to the absence of Victor Osimhen. Chelle also has a selection headache in goal, with Maduka Okoye and Stanley Nwabali both fit and ready to start. The team's defense and attack are also well-stocked, with players like Fredricks, Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Bright Osayi-Samuel all in contention.
The Super Eagles will face Madagascar on September 25, 2026, before traveling to Bissau for a match against Guinea Bissau on September 29, 2026. The team will be looking to draw inspiration from past encounters between the two countries, including a 2-0 win over Madagascar in Calabar in 2010 and a similar victory in Antananarivo a year later. However, the Barea also have a notable win over Nigeria, having defeated them 2-0 in a group phase match in Alexandria in 2019.
The Barea of Madagascar have arrived in Uyo three days ahead of the match, signaling their intent to cause an upset. The team has been vocal about their readiness for battle, and the Super Eagles will need to be at their best to secure a win. The match will be a crucial test of Nigeria's credentials in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers.
The Super Eagles have a strong squad for the upcoming matches, with a mix of experienced and young players. The team includes goalkeepers Arthur Okonkwo, Maduka Okoye, and Stanley Nwabali, as well as defenders like Bruno Onyemaechi, Isaac James, and Benjamin Fredricks. The midfield and attack are also well-represented, with players like Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, and Taiwo Awoniyi.
Coach Chelle has emphasized the importance of taking the matches seriously from the outset, stating that the team must "go for it with our hearts" and refuse to slow down. The Super Eagles will need to heed this message if they are to secure a strong start in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers. A win over Madagascar and Guinea Bissau would be a significant step towards qualification.
The AFCON 2027 qualifiers will be a challenging test for the Super Eagles, but the team appears well-prepared. With a strong squad and a determined coach, Nigeria will be looking to make a statement in the qualifiers and secure a spot in the tournament. The team's performance in the upcoming matches will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
Key points
- Super Eagles target 6 points against Madagascar and Guinea Bissau
- Éric Chelle emphasizes importance of strong start in AFCON 2027 qualifiers
- Nigeria welcomes back key players, including Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi
