Super Eagles Camp Fills Up As Premier League Stars, Okonkwo Arrive Ahead Of Madagascar Clash

The Super Eagles camp in Uyo is gradually filling up as Nigeria intensifies preparations for Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar.

Head coach Éric Chelle opened camp on Monday, with a number of invited players already arriving in Akwa Ibom ahead of the Group-stage encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

The England-based contingent of Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi were among the early arrivals, while goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo also joined up with the squad.

The players were pictured together at dinner after arriving in Nigeria, as preparations began in earnest for Nigeria’s opening AFCON qualifying fixture.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also arrived in the country on Monday and shared pictures of his journey, with more members of Chelle’s 24-man squad expected to join the camp ahead of Tuesday’s first training session.

According to team media officer Promise Efoghe, the Super Eagles are based in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, where they will continue their build-up to Friday’s encounter.

Taiwo Awoniyi and Frank Onyeka are among the players expected to arrive shortly, with the full squad expected to be assembled as the European-based contingent continues to make its way to Nigeria.

Madagascar have also arrived in the country for the encounter. The visitors landed in Lagos on Monday afternoon before travelling onwards to Uyo.

The Super Eagles are returning to competitive action after their last outing against Portugal in an international friendly in June and will be looking to begin their AFCON qualifying campaign with a home victory.

Chelle has opted for a 24-man squad for the opening qualifiers, although key forwards Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu are notable absentees.

Nigeria will host Madagascar on Friday before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later, with Chelle’s side seeking a strong start to their quest for a place at the 2027 AFCON finals.