The Super Eagles vs Madagascar clash kicks off Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign today, September 25, as Éric Chelle’s side face the Barea at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM Nigerian time. The match is Nigeria’s first competitive fixture since finishing third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and comes after the Super Eagles missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Why This AFCON Qualifier Matters
The Nigeria vs Madagascar AFCON 2027 qualifier is more important than a normal opening group game because Group L has an unusual qualification setup.
Nigeria, Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and Tanzania are in the group, but Tanzania is already guaranteed a place at AFCON 2027 because it is one of the tournament’s co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda.
That leaves Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau competing for the group’s remaining qualification spot. Every point could therefore carry extra weight from the opening match.
A strong start in Uyo would give Nigeria an early advantage before the team travels to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
Osimhen’s Absence Changes the Attack
One of the biggest talking points before the Super Eagles vs Madagascar match is the absence of Victor Osimhen. The Galatasaray striker was ruled out of the September qualifiers because of a right adductor injury, with Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi brought into the squad as his replacement.
That puts greater responsibility on players such as Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare.
For Chelle, the match is an opportunity to see how his attack functions without one of Nigeria’s most important forwards.
Madagascar Have Already Shocked Nigeria
Nigeria cannot afford to treat the Barea as an easy opponent. Madagascar defeated the Super Eagles 2-0 at the 2019 AFCON, producing one of the most memorable results between the two countries. Nigeria have won three of their five previous meetings, with one draw and Madagascar’s victory.
That history gives the visitors a useful reference point, while Nigeria will be looking to make home advantage count.
What to Expect in Uyo
The Super Eagles enter the AFCON 2027 qualifiers with a squad that combines established players and younger options. Chelle’s players have also publicly expressed confidence ahead of the opening game, with Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon among those saying the team is focused on winning.
The bigger story, however, is what comes after the final whistle. Nigeria’s next qualifier is only four days later against Guinea-Bissau. With one qualification place available outside automatic qualifiers Tanzania, the Super Eagles have little room for a slow start.
Today’s Nigeria vs Madagascar match is therefore the first test of whether Chelle’s team can turn its recent disappointment into a fresh AFCON campaign.
