Nigeria's Super Eagles Prepare for Tough AFCON Qualifiers

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar in Abuja on September 25, followed by a match against Guinea-Bissau. Group L presents a unique challenge as only the highest-placed team among Nigeria, Madagascar, and Guinea-Bissau will secure the remaining qualifying spot, with Tanzania already qualified as a co-host.

This situation means that any points dropped against Tanzania will still impact Nigeria's chances. NFF Technical Director Austin Eguavoen acknowledged the group's difficulty, emphasizing that Madagascar is a formidable opponent and recalling past close encounters with Guinea-Bissau.

Head coach Éric Chelle has retained his position despite Nigeria's failure to qualify for the World Cup and has named a 24-man squad featuring Premier League players such as Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi. The qualification process will unfold over six months, with matches scheduled across three international windows.