AFCON 2027Q: Super Eagles Begin Preparation for Madagascar Showdown

The Super Eagles have commenced preparations for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with Madagascar’s Barea as their first opponents.

Nigeria opened camp in Ikot Ikpene, Akwa Ibom State, on Monday ahead of Friday’s Group L encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Head coach Eric Chelle and members of his technical crew arrived in the state over the weekend, with players expected to join the camp ahead of the team’s first training session on Tuesday.

The opening 15 minutes of the training session will be open to members of the media as the team begins its preparations for the important qualifier.

Nigeria will be seeking a positive start to its campaign after being drawn in Group L alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and co-hosts Tanzania.

Tanzania have already secured their place at the 2027 tournament as one of the three host nations, alongside Kenya and Uganda. Consequently, Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will compete for the remaining qualifying place in the group.

Chelle has named a 24-man squad for the opening fixtures, with several established players returning to the national team and three players receiving their first senior call-ups.

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, defender Isaac James and forward George Ilenikhena are the newcomers included in the squad.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi, midfielders Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka, as well as forwards Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon, are among the experienced players expected to play key roles.

However, Nigeria will begin the qualifiers without Victor Osimhen after the striker was ruled out because of a muscle injury sustained while playing for Galatasaray.

Osimhen’s absence leaves Chelle with alternative attacking options, including Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Lookman, Chukwueze, Moses Simon and Ilenikhena.

Madagascar arrived in Nigeria on Monday with a 24-player squad and 10 officials for the encounter.

The Barea, coached by Corentin Martins, will be aiming to return to the Africa Cup of Nations after missing the 2025 edition in Morocco.

Following Friday’s fixture, Nigeria will travel to Guinea-Bissau for its second qualifying match on September 29.

The Super Eagles will be hoping to collect maximum points from their opening two fixtures as they begin their pursuit of qualification for the 2027 continental championship.