The Super Eagles are set to take on Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match on Friday, and preparations are already underway, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigerian fans last saw the Super Eagles in action back in June, when they faced Portugal in an international friendly ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Having failed to qualify for the tournament, the three-time African champions missed out on competing on the global stage.
Now, this campaign serves as a shot at redemption for head coach Éric Chelle and his squad as they aim to kick off their AFCON qualifiers on a high note.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.soccernet.ng%2Fmain%2F2026%2F01%2Fimago1071098298-1.jpg)
The encounter is scheduled to take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. Madagascar’s national team arrived in Nigeria yesterday afternoon, touching down in Lagos before connecting to Uyo.
The Barea of Madagascar have landed ahead of the AFCON qualifier clash against the Super Eagles pic.twitter.com/KQo4QSFVeD
— Soccernet.ng (@soccernet_ng) September 21, 2026
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles camp officially opened on Monday. Chelle arrived in Uyo on Monday afternoon, with key players already reporting to camp.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.soccernet.ng%2Fmain%2F2026%2F05%2FWhatsApp-Image-2026-05-25-at-09.09.40.jpeg)
Details of the Super Eagles Camp
According to the team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, the squad has set up camp in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
The opening training session will take place on Tuesday, September 22, as players continue to arrive. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali shared photos of himself traveling by air on Monday morning.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.soccernet.ng%2Fmain%2F2025%2F12%2F20251219_144819.jpg)
Meanwhile, members of the England-based contingent—including Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Arthur Okonkwo—have already arrived in Nigeria. Others, such as Taiwo Awoniyi and Frank Onyeka, are expected shortly.
Back home and settling in.
Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Arthur Okonkwo enjoy dinner after arriving in Nigeria ahead of Friday’s #AFCONQ. pic.twitter.com/eEZNPOkTrw
— Soar Africa! (@SSE_NGA) September 21, 2026
Given that most of the invited squad members ply their trade abroad, the full roster is expected to be assembled by Tuesday.
Chelle has called up 24 players, with Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu being the most notable absentees.
Nigeria will be targeting all three points at home before traveling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.
