Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi says Nigeria are determined to start their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign strongly against Madagascar.
Nigeria will open their Group L campaign at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25. Ndidi says the players understand the importance of making a positive start.
Speaking at a press conference on the eve of the match, the midfielder reflected on Nigeria’s difficult experience in the last World Cup qualifying campaign.
Ndidi demands strong start against Madagascar
Ndidi admitted that the Super Eagles did not start their previous World Cup campaign well. However, he believes the current squad has the focus needed to avoid a repeat.
“We know the experiences of the last World Cup, and we know how we started was really bad.
“It won’t happen again because this is a focused team. We’re planning to set the momentum because the first game is the most important in every competition. “We will do our best, we’re ready for it, he added.”
The Super Eagles enter the Madagascar game after finishing third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Nigeria defeated Egypt 4 2 on penalties in the third place play off at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.
The match finished goalless after 90 minutes, forcing both teams into a penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali then played a key role for Nigeria.
Nwabali saved penalties from Mohamed Salah and Oumar Marmoush. His saves helped Nigeria secure their ninth AFCON third place finish and maintain their perfect record in the fixture.
Now, Nigeria must turn their attention to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. The Super Eagles will host Madagascar at 5pm Nigerian time on Friday.
After the opening match, Nigeria will travel to Guinea Bissau. Their second Group L qualifier is scheduled for September 29.
