The Super Eagles are set to begin their journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations when they face Madagascar in Uyo on Friday.
Nigeria’s opening Group L qualifier will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 4 p.m. GMT. Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will jointly host the 2027 tournament.
The players have been building up preparations in Akwa Ibom, with confidence growing in camp ahead of the encounter.
Players Target Strong Start
Alex Iwobi said the mood in the Super Eagles camp remains positive as the team prepares for its first competitive match of the qualifying campaign.
The Fulham midfielder said the players understand the quality of their opponents but remain determined to secure victory.
Moses Simon also expressed confidence in the team’s preparations, promising that the players would give everything on the pitch.
George Ilenikhena, who received his first senior call-up, said the team would settle for nothing less than victory.
Chelle Names Strong Squad
Head coach Éric Chelle has selected a squad featuring experienced players and several newcomers.
Among the goalkeeping options are Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo, while the defence includes Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
The midfield includes Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika.
Nigeria’s attacking options include Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare and Taiwo Awoniyi.
Osimhen Out Through Injury
The Super Eagles will, however, have to start the campaign without Victor Osimhen.
CAF confirmed that the Galatasaray striker will miss Nigeria’s opening qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau while recovering from a muscle injury.
His absence leaves other forwards with greater responsibility as Nigeria begin the qualifying campaign.
Madagascar Pose Opening Test
Madagascar are also preparing seriously for the encounter.
The Barea recently reached the CHAN final and have added new players to their squad ahead of the AFCON qualifiers. CAF reported that goalkeeper Zacharie Boucher and striker Roman Ferber received their first international call-ups from coach Corentin Martins.
The visitors will face Nigeria in Uyo before playing Tanzania four days later.
For Nigeria, the next assignment will come on September 29 against Guinea-Bissau.
With Tanzania already guaranteed a place at the 2027 tournament as one of the co-hosts, Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will compete for the qualifying place available from Group L.
