Nigeria’s Super Eagles will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on Friday when they host Madagascar in a crucial Group L encounter at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The match, scheduled for 5pm Nigerian time, is an important first step for Nigeria as they seek to secure a place at the 2027 AFCON finals and return to the continental tournament with another strong campaign.

The Super Eagles will be looking to make their home advantage count against the Barea, with a positive result vital to setting the tone for the qualifying race.

Group L also contains Guinea-Bissau and co-hosts Tanzania, who already have a guaranteed place at the 2027 AFCON finals. As a result, only the highest-placed team among Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will earn the group’s remaining qualifying ticket.

Nigeria will travel to Guinea-Bissau for their second fixture on Tuesday, while Madagascar will face Tanzania in their next group game.

Head coach Eric Chelle, however, will have to cope without star striker Victor Osimhen, who is ruled out through injury. Adams Akor and Taiwo Awoniyi are among the players expected to provide the attacking threat in his absence.

The Super Eagles have a favourable record against Madagascar, winning three of their last five meetings, drawing one and losing one. Nigeria have scored five goals and conceded two across those encounters.

With qualification places at a premium and every point potentially important, Nigeria will be expected to approach Friday’s fixture with the urgency required to begin the campaign on a strong footing.