Super Eagles target winning start against Madagascar in AFCON qualifying campaign
Nigeria’s Super Eagles say they are determined to beat Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match in Uyo on Friday, September 25, 2026. Players including Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon expressed confidence, while coach Eric Chelle named squads affected by Victor Osimhen’s injury withdrawal.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have promised to pursue victory against Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match, Channels Television reported. The game is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi said the squad was in high spirits and determined to win, while acknowledging Madagascar as a good team. George Ilhenikina also said Nigeria’s objective was a victory. Goalkeeper Nwabali welcomed the inclusion of younger players, and Moses Simon assured supporters that the team would give its best.
The match is the first of Nigeria’s qualifying series for the tournament, which is scheduled to be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Nigeria will play Guinea-Bissau four days later, on September 29, before facing Russia in an international friendly on October 6. Coach Eric Chelle selected goalkeepers Arthur Okonkwo, Maduka Okoye and Nwabali for the qualifying matches.
The defensive options include Bruno Onyemaechi, Calvin Bassey, Olaoluwa Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika are among the midfielders named. The attack includes Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Taiwo Awoniyi, Moses Simon and Tolu Arokodare. Awoniyi was called up to replace Victor Osimhen, who withdrew after suffering a right adductor muscle strain.
Chelle also unveiled a separate squad for the friendly against Russia.
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