Nigeria’s Super Eagles urged to start 2027 AFCON campaign with victory over Madagascar

The Super Eagles have been told to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with maximum points when they face Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

Acting General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, said the team must secure victory for the country in their opening qualifying fixture against the Barea.

Nigeria return to a stadium that has previously provided a successful starting point in their pursuit of Africa Cup of Nations qualification. The Super Eagles claimed their places at the 2019 and 2025 finals after using Uyo as their home ground during those qualifying campaigns.

“We are back to the familiar surroundings of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State for another qualifying race,” said Ikpeme.

“It was here in Uyo that the Super Eagles won the tickets to the 2019 and 2025 AFCON finals. The NFF has absolute confidence in the team to run another good race and win the ticket with matches to spare.”

Ikpeme said the immediate priority was to beat Madagascar before Nigeria turn their attention to their second Group qualifying match away to Guinea Bissau on Tuesday.

“Surely, the only way we can do that is to start with the maximum three points tomorrow, and then with another three points in Bissau on Tuesday,” he added.

“However, since we are taking it one match at a time, the focus now is on Madagascar on Friday. Nigerians are looking forward to victory tomorrow and I know the Super Eagles will give them joy.”

The NFF official also confirmed that preparations had been completed to ensure the match runs smoothly, with support from the National Sports Commission.

He said arrangements were also in place for the Super Eagles’ travel to Guinea Bissau and their return to Nigeria after the Day 2 meeting with the Wild Dogs on Tuesday, 29th September.

Nigeria qualified for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Egypt after Uyo hosted home fixtures against South Africa, Libya and Lesotho during the successful campaign.

For the 2025 finals in Morocco, the three-time winners negotiated a qualifying group featuring Libya, Rwanda and Benin Republic, securing their place with one match still to play.

The Super Eagles’ first match of the 2027 qualifying race against Madagascar will begin at 5pm on Friday.