AFCON 2027Q: Fans Back Super Eagles To Beat Madagascar In Uyo

Super Eagles supporters have expressed confidence that Nigeria will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with victory when they face Madagascar in Uyo on Friday.

Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on September 25, with both sides seeking an early advantage in Group L.

The teams held separate training sessions in Uyo on Tuesday as preparations intensified for the opening qualifier.

Speaking in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, fans and football stakeholders expressed optimism that Nigeria possess enough quality to secure the three points.

Emmanuel Alozie, a football scout and technical manager of Dominion Excellence Star Academy in Lagos, backed the Super Eagles to overcome Madagascar but urged head coach Éric Chelle to select his strongest available side.

“Nigeria is filled with very skilful players. We cannot fall to Madagascar because our players in the European leagues are top players.

“They command a lot of respect, while the coaching crew should ensure that the best players are selected for the match,” Alozie said.

He added: “Overall, I am positive about their chances of winning the match and claiming the expected three points.”

Former international Benjamin James said Nigeria could cope with the absence of injured striker Victor Osimhen, describing the situation as an opportunity for Taiwo Awoniyi to re-establish himself in the national team.

“It is good to have Awoniyi back in the team. It is going to be a great day for the Super Eagles because some other players will also be making their first appearances,” James said.

He, however, warned Nigeria against underestimating their opponents.

“The team must play with caution and should not underrate anybody because Madagascar are no pushovers,” he added.

Football fan Susan Olamidele also backed the Super Eagles, pointing to the team’s depth and experience.

She urged the players to remain disciplined and focused throughout the encounter.

“We have the players who can deliver. Our players command great respect in Europe and have the ability to perform at the top level,” she said.

Nigeria will enter the contest without Osimhen, who is unavailable through injury, while Awoniyi has been recalled to strengthen the attack.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi will lead a squad that includes Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Frank Onyeka.

Chelle has also included several less experienced players, among them George Ilenikhena, Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredericks, Moses Usor and Chibuike Nwaiwu.

Madagascar, meanwhile, will arrive with confidence after a series of encouraging results and their run to the CHAN final.

The Barea also have a recent psychological advantage over Nigeria, having defeated the Super Eagles 2-0 at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt.

Nigeria have, however, won three of their last five meetings with Madagascar, with one draw and one defeat.

With Guinea-Bissau also in Group L, both Nigeria and Madagascar will be keen to make a strong start to the qualifying campaign and avoid dropping early points in the race for qualification.