Nigeria’s Super Eagles target winning start against Madagascar
Nigeria’s players say they are determined to beat Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium on September 25, 2026. Coach Eric Chelle has named squads for the qualifiers and a Russia friendly, with Victor Osimhen withdrawn through injury.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles are preparing for their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Madagascar, with players telling fans they expect to win, Channels Television reports. The fixture is scheduled for September 25, 2026, at 5 p.m. at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
It is the first of Nigeria’s qualifying matches for the tournament, which is to be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi said the squad was in high spirits and determined to win, while acknowledging Madagascar as a good team. George Ilhenikina said nothing less than victory would satisfy the team.
Goalkeeper Nwabali welcomed the inclusion of younger players, and Moses Simon also promised the team would give its best. Coach Eric Chelle has announced separate squads for the two AFCON qualifiers and an international friendly against Russia. The listed goalkeepers are Arthur Okonkwo, Maduka Okoye and Nwabali.
Defensive options include Bruno Onyemaechi, Calvin Bassey, Olaoluwa Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel. The midfield list includes Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika. The attack includes Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Taiwo Awoniyi, Simon and Tolu Arokodare.
Awoniyi replaced Victor Osimhen after Osimhen withdrew with a right adductor muscle strain. Nigeria is scheduled to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29 before playing Russia on October 6.
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