- Intensive preparations in Uyo: The Super Eagles held rigorous training sessions led by coach Éric Chelle at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium ahead of their Group L opener.
- Key squad adjustments: Star striker Victor Osimhen withdrew due to injury, prompting a late call-up for Coventry City forward Taiwo Awoniyi alongside early arrivals like Wilfred Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze.
- Upcoming match schedule: Nigeria is set to face visiting Madagascar this Friday, September 25, at 5 p.m. local time in their opening AFCON qualifier.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have stepped up preparations for their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar. Head coach Éric Chelle led the team through rigorous training sessions at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Twenty-three players took part in the opening workout. Captain Wilfred Ndidi, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, and winger Samuel Chukwueze joined the squad early to build match fitness ahead of Friday’s Group L encounter.
Squad Updates and Replacements
Chelle plans to use the remaining sessions to refine the team’s tactical shape. Nigeria aims to start its qualifying campaign strongly. They share Group L with Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and Tanzania.
The squad will miss star striker Victor Osimhen. The Galatasaray forward withdrew from the roster while recovering from an injury. Coventry City forward Taiwo Awoniyi received a late call-up to fill the vacancy.
Who is missing from the Super Eagles squad for the qualifier?
The Super Eagles will miss striker Victor Osimhen for their opening qualifiers after the Galatasaray forward withdrew from the squad to recover from an injury. Coventry City forward Taiwo Awoniyi was subsequently called up as his direct replacement.
Opponent Arrival and Match Schedule
Madagascar has arrived in Nigeria, with the Barea squad settling into their training camp in Uyo. The Super Eagles will face Madagascar on Friday, September 25, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 5 p.m. Nigerian time.
