Nigeria’s Super Eagles have stepped up preparations for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, beginning their first training session ahead of Friday’s Group L encounter with Madagascar.
The session was held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with 23 players available to head coach Éric Chelle and his technical team.
The team’s camp officially opened on Monday, although several players arrived the following day because of their respective club commitments.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali were among the players who joined the squad shortly before the training session, while Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was still expected to report to camp.
Chelle Begins Tactical Preparations
Chelle has named a 24-man squad for Nigeria’s opening qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, giving the coach an opportunity to begin assessing his players and working on his tactical plans.
Among those involved are Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Tolu Arokodare.
First-time senior invitees Isaac James, Moses Usor and George Ilenikhena are also part of the group preparing for the qualifiers.
The Super Eagles will face Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday, September 25, before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for their second qualifying fixture on September 29.
Osimhen Misses Opening Qualifiers
Nigeria will begin the campaign without Victor Osimhen after the Galatasaray striker withdrew from the squad to continue his recovery from injury.
His absence has created an opportunity for other forwards, including Awoniyi, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare and George Ilenikhena, to compete for attacking roles.
Awoniyi was brought into the squad as Osimhen’s replacement.
One Qualifying Place Available in Group L
Nigeria is in Group L alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and Tanzania.
However, the qualifying situation in the group is unusual because Tanzania, one of the hosts of the 2027 AFCON alongside Kenya and Uganda, already has an automatic place at the tournament.
Consequently, the highest-placed team among Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will secure the group’s available qualifying ticket.
The Super Eagles will therefore be looking to make a strong start when they host Madagascar in Uyo.
The team is entering the qualifying campaign after finishing third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and will be seeking another appearance at the continental tournament in 2027.
With Madagascar already in Nigeria ahead of the fixture, attention has now shifted to the final stages of preparation before Friday’s encounter.
