Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has urged his players to seize the initiative from the opening whistle as Nigeria prepares to commence its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign against Madagascar in Uyo today.
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Chelle emphasized that the three-time African champions must adopt an assertive approach and avoid any cautious play as they kick off their Group L qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, followed by an away fixture against Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
The opening fixture pits Nigeria against a familiar opponent in Madagascar, holding a historical advantage across five previous meetings with three wins, one draw, and a single defeat.
However, that lone loss remains a vivid memory for the Super Eagles, who suffered a 2–0 defeat to the Barea during the group stage of the 2019 AFCON tournament in Egypt.
With squad preparations finalized in Akwa Ibom, Chelle’s side aims to set an uncompromising tone in their pursuit of qualification for the 2027 finals.
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