PREVIEW: Super Eagles host Madagascar in 2027 AFCON qualifier

Nigeria's national football team, the Super Eagles, prepare to host Madagascar in the first qualifier for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. This marks a significant challenge for Chelle's rebuilding project, as Madagascar has previously defeated Nigeria in a crucial AFCON quarter-final match in 2019.

Victor Osimhen, the team's star forward, is ruled out for the first two qualifiers due to a right adductor strain, with Taiwo Awoniyi called up to fill the role and Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams expected to start. The Super Eagles enter the qualifier with a mixed record, having won against Zimbabwe and Jamaica, drawn with Poland, and lost 2-1 to Portugal in June.

Madagascar, led by coach Corentin Martins and captain Rayan Raveloson, arrives with a squad including Roman Ferber and Zacharie Boucher. Historically, the two teams have a balanced record in their last three meetings, each winning 2-0 and the other 2-0 in the AFCON 2019. The outcome of this qualifier could significantly impact Nigeria's journey in the group stage of the 2027 AFCON tournament.