Eric Chelle urges Nigeria to show ambition from first AFCON qualifier

Eric Chelle wants Nigeria to make their intentions clear from the opening match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers when they face Madagascar in Uyo on Friday.

The Super Eagles coach is urging his players to start the qualifying campaign with ambition and collect points immediately rather than allow the group to become difficult later.

“We need to show that we want it.”

Chelle believes Nigeria must demonstrate their desire from the first game and set the tone for the rest of their campaign. The 48 year old is looking for his players to approach the qualifiers with the same determination throughout the competition.

The need for a positive beginning comes after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, making the start of their AFCON campaign particularly important.

Chelle does not want his side to face another difficult qualifying journey. He has therefore placed emphasis on taking advantage of their opening fixture and making a strong start against Madagascar.

Nigeria will have little time to recover from the first match before their next Group L fixture. Following Friday’s meeting with Madagascar, the Super Eagles will travel to Guinea Bissau for their second qualifier on 29 September.

Chelle has several experienced players available for the opening matches. Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon and Ola Aina are among those expected to provide experience to the squad.

However, Nigeria will be without Victor Osimhen, who has been ruled out with a muscle injury. Taiwo Awoniyi has been called up as his replacement.

The Super Eagles also have recent history with Madagascar to consider. The two teams met at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, when Madagascar recorded a 2 0 victory over Nigeria in the group stage.

The Barea went on to reach the quarterfinals of that tournament, while Nigeria continued their campaign after finishing behind Madagascar in the group.

Chelle will now be hoping for a different outcome when the sides meet again in Uyo.

For Nigeria, the objective is to avoid giving themselves unnecessary pressure later in the qualifying campaign. A strong opening result would give the Super Eagles an early foundation as they begin their attempt to reach the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Chelle’s message to his players is therefore straightforward. Nigeria must show their ambition immediately, beginning with Friday’s meeting with Madagascar.

The coach wants the Super Eagles to take control of their campaign from the first day rather than wait for the qualifying race to become complicated.