The Super Eagles held their first training session in Uyo on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, as preparations intensified for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Madagascar on Friday. Head coach Éric Chelle had 23 players available for the 6 p.m. session at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium practice pitch. The team is looking to make a strong start in Group L, which also features Guinea-Bissau and 2027 AFCON co-hosts Tanzania.
The Super Eagles camp initially opened with 20 players, including Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Alex Iwobi. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali joined the team shortly after, followed by captain Wilfred Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze, bringing the total tally to 23 players. The team is expected to face a tough challenge from Madagascar, who previously defeated Nigeria 2-0 during the group stage of the 2019 AFCON in Egypt.
Friday’s fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium marks Nigeria’s opening match in Group L. Securing an early lead in the group is critical due to the tournament’s qualification rules. With Tanzania automatically qualified as co-hosts, only the highest-placed team among the remaining three nations in Group L will advance to the finals. The Super Eagles will need to be at their best to secure a win against Madagascar.
The Super Eagles will travel to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, for their second Group L fixture. The team has been backed by former coach Eguavoen, who expressed confidence in the squad selected by Éric Chelle. Former player Oshaniwa has also warned the Super Eagles about the threat posed by Madagascar ahead of the clash.
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo will host the match against Madagascar on Friday. The stadium has undergone renovations, with the Warri Stadium pitch also nearing completion. The Super Eagles will be looking to make a strong impression in front of their home fans.
The Super Eagles have been boosted by the return of Victor Osimhen, who is set to return on October 9. The team will be looking to build on their recent performances and secure a win against Madagascar. The match will be a crucial test for Éric Chelle and his team as they look to qualify for the 2027 AFCON.
The 2027 AFCON qualifiers will be a major test for the Super Eagles as they look to make a strong impression in the tournament. With a tough group featuring Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and Tanzania, the team will need to be at their best to secure a top finish and qualify for the finals.
Key points
- - The Super Eagles began training in Uyo for their 2027 AFCON qualifier against Madagascar. - The team has a tough group featuring Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and 2027 AFCON co-hosts Tanzania. - Securing an early lead in the group is critical due to the tournament’s qualification rules.
