The Super Eagles have opened camp in Ikot Ekpene ahead of Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against Madagascar, with Eric Chelle’s squad set to hold their first training session on Tuesday evening, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Nigeria will welcome Madagascar to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday as the three-time African champions begin their Group L campaign for a place at the 2027 AFCON finals.
Players began arriving at the team’s Ikot Ekpene base on Monday, while Madagascar also landed in Nigeria later the same day as the Barea intensified preparations for the encounter.
Chelle has selected a 24-man squad for the opening qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, with Taiwo Awoniyi brought into the squad following the withdrawal of injured captain Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen’s absence means Chelle will have to assess his alternative attacking options during the team’s short preparation period before the opening qualifier.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to train on Tuesday, September 22, with the first 15 minutes of the session open to members of the media.
The team also confirmed that selected players will be available for exclusive media interviews at the Ikot Ekpene base on Wednesday. Officials are expected to communicate the specific time for the media activities.
Nigeria will be looking to make a positive start against Madagascar before turning their attention to Guinea-Bissau in their second qualifying fixture.
The 2027 AFCON will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, with the Super Eagles aiming to secure their place at the tournament after missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Chelle will have limited time to prepare his players for the Madagascar encounter and is expected to use the training sessions to fine-tune his tactical approach, assess his available options and ensure Nigeria begin the qualifying campaign with a strong performance.