Preparations for Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Madagascar have intensified, with Super Eagles players arriving in Uyo ahead of Friday’s encounter.
Early reports had indicated that eight players had reached the team’s base, but the latest update from The Guardian put the number of players in camp at 23 as of Wednesday, with the squad already holding its first training session.
Among the early arrivals were Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi, Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredericks, Moses Uzor, George Ilenikhena, Arthur Okonkwo and Alex Iwobi.
Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Ademola Lookman, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Tolu Arokodare, Bruno Onyemaechi, Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka were also reported in camp.
Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali subsequently joined the group, bringing the reported number to 23.
The Super Eagles, under head coach Éric Chelle, have begun fine-tuning their preparations for the Group L opener at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday, September 25.
The team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, said the technical crew had planned a three-day training programme ahead of the Madagascar fixture.
Madagascar’s national team, the Barea, have also arrived in Uyo ahead of the encounter. A 28-member delegation landed at Victor Attah International Airport earlier in the week before moving to their hotel.
Nigeria will be looking to begin the qualifying campaign with a positive result on home soil before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for their second qualifying fixture on September 29.
The clash will also revive memories of the 2019 AFCON, when Madagascar defeated Nigeria 2–0 in the group stage in Egypt.
With both teams now settled in Akwa Ibom, attention is turning to Friday’s encounter as the Super Eagles begin their journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
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