The Super Eagles of Nigeria have demonstrated considerable confidence in advance of their inaugural 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter against Madagascar.
Nigeria shall host the Barea at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25, marking the commencement of the qualification campaign for the 2027 AFCON. The fixture is scheduled to commence at 4 p.m. GMT.
The Super Eagles have been conducting preparations at their training facility in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, with numerous players having already assembled ahead of this significant Group L match.
Iwobi, Simon Back Super Eagles
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi stated that the players maintain elevated morale and remain entirely concentrated on achieving a favorable outcome.
“All players are in excellent spirits. We are collectively resolved to secure victory in this match,” Iwobi remarked, while recognizing that Madagascar possesses a formidable squad.
Moses Simon similarly provided assurance to supporters that the players would demonstrate their maximum capabilities when the two teams compete.
“We shall deliver our finest performance to achieve victory on Friday,” the winger stated.
Recently selected Super Eagles invitee George Ilenikhena articulated his objectives clearly ahead of his inaugural competitive appearance with the senior national team.
“Our objective is to secure victory on Friday. We will accept nothing less than a win,” he declared.
Nwabali Welcomes New Players
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali indicated that the integration of younger players could prove advantageous to the national team.
He expressed appreciation for the opportunity afforded to the new selections to gain exposure to senior international competition and make meaningful contributions to the team’s qualification effort.
Coach Éric Chelle extended inaugural senior invitations to Arthur Okonkwo, Isaac James, and George Ilenikhena for the opening AFCON qualifying fixtures.
Osimhen Misses Opening Qualifiers
Nigeria shall commence its qualification campaign without Victor Osimhen following the striker’s exclusion from the matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau due to a muscular injury.
The Nigeria Football Federation announced that Osimhen would be unavailable for both September matches as he undergoes continued rehabilitation.
