The Super Eagles are in high spirits ahead of their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Madagascar.
Nigeria will face Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25, 2026. Kick off is scheduled for 5pm.
The match marks the start of Nigeria’s qualifying campaign for the tournament, which Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda will host.
The Super Eagles camp has remained lively as the players prepare for a positive start. Several members of the squad have also spoken about their determination to secure victory.
Players spoke to Channels Television at the Sheraton by Four Points Hotel in Ikot Ekpene, where the team is staying, and shared their expectations ahead of the game.
Super Eagles players target victory
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi said the squad remains focused and confident despite the threat posed by Madagascar.
”Everyone is in high spirits. We are all determined to win the game. Madagascar is a good team, but we’ll beat them,” Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi said, while responding to a question about the atmosphere in camp.
George Ilhenikina also expressed his excitement after receiving an invitation to represent Nigeria.
”Of course, our focus is to win the game on Friday. Nothing less than a win is good enough for us,” said Ilhenikina.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali welcomed the arrival of younger players into the national team. He said their inclusion would give them an opportunity to represent Nigeria.
”It is a good thing to have some young players join the team,” he said. It is a good thing that they also have an opportunity to play for our country.”
Moses Simon also stressed the team’s commitment to getting the desired result against Madagascar.
”Rest assured that we will put up our best to win on Friday,” Moses Simon said.
Coach Eric Chelle named two separate squads last week for Nigeria’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches and an international friendly against Russia.
The Super Eagles will hope to begin their qualifying campaign with a win in Uyo before turning their attention to their next fixture away from home.
