Chelle demands strong start as Super Eagles open AFCON qualifiers

Super Eagles Head Coach Éric Chelle on Wednesday urged Nigeria to start their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign strongly and avoid late pressure.

Nigeria host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, on Friday, targeting three points before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for Tuesday’s second qualifier.

Chelle said the Super Eagles must establish their intent from the opening fixture and approach every match with determination.

“We have to show everyone from Day One that we want it,” Chelle said, insisting Nigeria must pursue points “without any hesitation.”

The coach said the team must sustain its intensity throughout the qualifying campaign and avoid the uncertainty experienced during the recent World Cup qualifying race.

Nigeria have recalled defender Ola Aina, youngster Benjamin Fredricks and forward Taiwo Awoniyi for the qualifiers.

Awoniyi was drafted into the squad following the forced absence of Nigeria’s regular striker, Victor Osimhen.

Chelle also faces a selection dilemma in goal, with Maduka Okoye and Stanley Nwabali both available for the opening qualifier.

Defensive options include Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while the attack offers several alternatives.

Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze are among the attacking players available for selection against Madagascar.

George Ilenikhena has also joined the squad, alongside forwards Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Awoniyi and Moses Usor.

Nigeria have won their previous two AFCON qualifying meetings with Madagascar, recording identical 2-0 victories in Calabar and Antananarivo.

The victories came during the 2010 and 2011 qualifying campaigns, when Nigeria prevailed in both encounters.

Madagascar, however, recorded a notable 2-0 victory over Nigeria in Alexandria in June 2019 during the Africa Cup of Nations.

The defeat did not prevent Nigeria from progressing, as the Super Eagles had already secured qualification for the knockout stage.

Friday’s encounter will therefore provide both sides with an opportunity to begin the new AFCON qualifying campaign with maximum points.

Madagascar arrived in Uyo three days before the fixture, highlighting their preparations for the opening contest.

The Super Eagles squad comprises three goalkeepers, eight defenders, four midfielders and eight forwards for the Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau qualifiers.