Nigeria vs Madagascar: Super Eagles Begin 2027 AFCON Qualifiers in Uyo

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will kick off their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Eric Chelle’s men will be hoping to secure all three points in their opening Group L fixture as they begin their attempt to qualify for the AFCON tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

The Super Eagles enter the match after recording mixed results in their most recent international outings. Nigeria defeated Zimbabwe and Jamaica but subsequently drew with Poland before losing 2-1 to Portugal in June.

That defeat brought an end to Nigeria’s 12-game unbeaten streak under Chelle and represented the first time the Malian coach had suffered a regulation-time defeat since becoming manager.

Nigeria will, however, be without key striker Victor Osimhen for their first two qualifiers. The Galatasaray forward was ruled out after suffering a right adductor strain.

Taiwo Awoniyi has been brought back into the squad as Osimhen’s replacement. Chelle can also call on Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare and George Ilenikhena in attack.

Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze are expected to add further attacking options against Madagascar.

The visitors have named a 25-player squad for the trip to Uyo, with Rayan Raveloson serving as captain. Madagascar coach Corentin Martins has selected striker Roman Ferber and goalkeeper Zacharie Boucher for their first international appearances.

The Barea will also be encouraged by their recent history against Nigeria. Madagascar famously defeated the Super Eagles 2-0 at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt.

Overall, Nigeria have recorded three wins in five previous meetings with Madagascar. One match ended in a draw, while Madagascar have won once.

With Tanzania already assured of a place at the tournament as a co-host, only one qualifying spot is available from Group L. Nigeria will therefore be looking to make a positive start in Uyo.

The Super Eagles’ next fixture will be away to Guinea-Bissau on September 29.

Match details

Match: Nigeria vs Madagascar
Competition: 2027 AFCON Qualifiers, Group L
Date: Friday, September 25
Venue: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo
Kick-off: 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time (4:00 p.m. GMT)

Where to watch Nigeria vs Madagascar

Fans will be able to follow the encounter through the official television and streaming platforms that have secured broadcast rights for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

Viewers should check their local listings and official broadcaster platforms for confirmed coverage details ahead of the match.

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