Nigeria vs Madagascar: 23 Super Eagles Train in Uyo Ahead of 2027 AFCON Qualifier
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have begun their final preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with 23 players taking part in their first training session in Uyo on Tuesday ahead of Friday’s Group L opener against Madagascar.
Head coach Éric Chelle led the session at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium as the three-time African champions stepped up preparations for their opening qualifier against the Barea.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze were among the players who completed their arrival in camp and joined the rest of the squad for the evening workout.
Goalkeepers Arthur Okonkwo and Stanley Nwabali were also involved, while Maduka Okoye remained the only invited player yet to report to camp.
Chelle worked with a mixture of established Super Eagles regulars and emerging talents, with Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Frank Onyeka all featuring in the session.
The training also gave the coaching crew an opportunity to assess several players who are looking to establish themselves in the senior national team.
Among the newer faces involved were George Ilenikhena, Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredericks, Moses Usor and Chibuike Nwaiwu.
Taiwo Awoniyi was another notable presence in Uyo, with the Nottingham Forest forward making his return to the Super Eagles setup after his last appearance for Nigeria in 2024.
23 Super Eagles Players in Tuesday’s Training
Goalkeepers: Arthur Okonkwo, Stanley Nwabali.
Defenders: Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredericks, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Isaac James.
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka.
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi, Tolu Arokodare, Moses Usor, George Ilenikhena.
With the first workout completed, Chelle is expected to use the remaining sessions to fine-tune his tactical plans and assess his options before the Madagascar clash.
Nigeria will host Madagascar in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for their second qualifying fixture on September 29.
The Super Eagles will be targeting a strong start as they begin their campaign for qualification for the 2027 AFCON finals.
