We are not afraid of Nigeria – Madagascar captain Rayan Raveloson ahead of AFCON qualifier opener

Madagascar captain Rayan Raveloson has insisted that the Barea will not be intimidated by Nigeria when the two sides meet in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Madagascar are set to face the Super Eagles on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with both teams beginning their campaigns in the race for qualification to the continental tournament.

Nigeria enter the encounter with a strong reputation on the African football scene, but Raveloson believes Madagascar must approach the game without fear and with the confidence to compete against their more established opponents.

Speaking during a pre-match interview with reporters in Uyo, the Madagascar captain stressed that football is ultimately decided on the pitch and that the Barea have no reason to be intimidated by the Super Eagles.

“It’s football. They are humans like us, so we are not scared,” Raveloson told reporters.

The midfielder’s comments reflect Madagascar’s determination to approach the fixture with a positive mentality rather than allowing Nigeria’s history and status in African football to affect their preparations.

The Barea have earned a reputation for being capable of competing against stronger opposition, and Raveloson believes that attitude will be important when they face Nigeria in front of a home crowd in Uyo.

For Madagascar, the match represents an opportunity to make an early statement in their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign. A positive result against Nigeria would provide the team with a strong start and valuable momentum for the matches that follow.

Nigeria, meanwhile, will be looking to make home advantage count and begin their qualification campaign with a victory.

The Super Eagles will have the backing of their supporters at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, but Raveloson insists that the atmosphere and the stature of their opponents will not change Madagascar’s approach.

The Barea captain is expected to play a key leadership role as Madagascar look to remain organised and disciplined against Nigeria.

With the two nations meeting on the opening matchday, both teams will be aware of the importance of avoiding an early setback in a qualifying campaign where every point could prove significant.

Raveloson’s message to his teammates is clear: respect Nigeria, but do not fear them.

Madagascar will now look to translate that confidence onto the pitch when the two sides meet in Uyo, with the Barea aiming to begin their journey towards the 2027 AFCON on a positive note.