2027 AFCONQ: Adeboye Urges Super Eagles To Build On Madagascar Win In Bissau

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has urged the Super Eagles to build on their opening victory over Madagascar when they face Guinea-Bissau in their second 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture on Tuesday.

Nigeria began their Group L campaign with a 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, with debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scoring the goals that secured the three points.

Adeboye described the victory as an important start but called on the Super Eagles to improve their performance and produce another positive result against Guinea-Bissau.

“The first game is behind us now. We got the three points, which was important, but everyone who watched that match knows there are areas where we must improve. The next game provides an opportunity to show that improvement,” Adeboye said.

He praised the team’s resilience after falling behind to Madagascar, particularly the immediate impact of Ilenikhena and Usor on their senior international debuts.

According to the presidential aide, their performances underline the importance of giving emerging Nigerian talents opportunities at the highest level.

“What excited me about the last game was seeing young players come into the Super Eagles and immediately take responsibility. Ilenikhena and Usor were given opportunities and they responded with goals.

“That is healthy for the national team and encouraging for every young Nigerian footballer dreaming of playing for his country.”

Adeboye also congratulated Moses Simon on reaching 100 appearances for Nigeria, describing the milestone as a reflection of the balance between experience and emerging talent in the national team.

He noted that Simon’s century came on the same night two players began their Super Eagles careers with goals, describing the combination as part of the transition required by a successful national team.

Looking ahead to the encounter in Bissau, Adeboye warned against underestimating Guinea-Bissau, who opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Tanzania.

“There are no small teams anymore. We must respect Guinea-Bissau, but we must also remember who we are and what the Nigerian jersey represents.

“We should go there with confidence, discipline and hunger for the three points,” he said.

Adeboye said the fixture also provides another opportunity to demonstrate the potential of Nigerian football and the importance of creating a sustainable pathway from grassroots development to the senior national team.

“Winning the first match gives confidence, but following it with another strong result creates momentum. The qualification journey has started, and every point matters,” he said.

The presidential aide expressed confidence that the Super Eagles would learn from their difficult moments against Madagascar and deliver an improved performance in Guinea-Bissau.

“Uyo gave us the start we wanted. Now the challenge is to build on it. Go out there, fight for the country and keep Nigeria moving towards AFCON 2027.”