Nigeria vs Madagascar AFCON 2027 Qualifier Set for September 25

Nigeria and Madagascar will face off in the first match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Friday, September 25, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The game will be broadcast live by Al Jazeera Sport, with build-up coverage starting at 13:30 GMT.

Nigeria, known as the Super Eagles, will look to kick off their campaign with a win after failing to qualify for the last two World Cups. Coach Eric Chelle has emphasized the need for an aggressive start, urging his players to 'go for the points without any hesitation.'

Madagascar, nicknamed the Barea, will aim to replicate their 2019 upset victory over Nigeria. The team, making their AFCON debut in 2019, advanced to the knockout stages but has not reached another tournament since. Their last win against Nigeria came in a 2-0 result at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria’s squad faces challenges with key players unavailable due to injury. Star striker Victor Osimhen is out with a muscle injury, and left-back Zaidu Sanusi is also sidelined. Coventry’s Taiwo Awoniyi has been recalled, while Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina may replace Sanusi. The predicted starting XI includes Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams up front.

Madagascar has no reported injuries, but goalkeeper Zacharie Boucher and striker Roman Ferber have been called up for the first time. The team’s predicted starting XI includes Dupire in goal and a mix of experienced and new players. The match will be a crucial test for both sides as they aim to secure a strong position in the qualifiers.

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be held in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from June 19 to July 17, 2027. Qualifying rounds are scheduled across three international windows in 2026 and 2027, with Nigeria and Madagascar starting their campaigns in September.