Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has challenged Nigeria to make a strong start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign when the three-time African champions face Madagascar.
Nigeria are set to begin their Group L campaign against Madagascar on Friday, September 25, with the encounter scheduled to take place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Chelle has emphasised the importance of starting the qualifying campaign positively as Nigeria begin their journey towards the tournament to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
The Super Eagles have been preparing in camp ahead of the opening fixture, with players reporting for duty under the supervision of the coaching staff. The Nigeria Football Federation has also continued preparations around the qualification campaign.
Nigeria will enter the match without Victor Osimhen, who has been ruled out of the opening qualifiers because of injury. Taiwo Awoniyi has subsequently joined the squad as a replacement, giving Chelle another attacking option.
The coach will therefore have to decide how best to organise his attack against a Madagascar side that Nigeria cannot afford to underestimate.
Midfielder Frank Onyeka has also provided encouragement after returning from injury and being included in the squad.
Nigeria’s opening fixture is part of the first round of matches in the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign. CAF’s schedule shows that Nigeria will face Madagascar on September 25 before continuing the campaign against Guinea-Bissau.
For Chelle and his players, the immediate objective is to establish a positive foundation before the qualifying race becomes more demanding.
The Super Eagles will be looking to turn their preparation into a strong competitive performance when they take on Madagascar in Uyo.
SMoR Sports Verdict: Nigeria’s opening match provides the first competitive test of Chelle’s current Super Eagles project in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
Source: Nigeria Football Federation, CAF and contemporary reports.
