The Super Eagles stepped up preparations for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with 23 players taking part in training in Uyo on Tuesday.
Nigeria held its first full training session at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium ahead of Friday’s Group L clash against Madagascar.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi, winger Samuel Chukwueze and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali were among the latest arrivals to link up with the squad, boosting head coach Éric Chelle’s options ahead of the crucial encounter.
Only goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is still being awaited in camp as the team moves closer to full strength.
The Super Eagles will be looking to make a strong start to their qualification campaign before travelling to Bissau for their second group match against Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
Read also: Super Eagles Begin AFCON 2027 Qualifier Preparation for Madagascar
Nigeria, however, will be without star striker Victor Osimhen, who is currently sidelined with an injury and unavailable for the opening fixtures.
With most of his squad now assembled, Chelle’s focus is on fine-tuning tactics and building cohesion within the team ahead of Friday’s showdown.
The Malian tactician will be hoping his players can take advantage of home support in Uyo and secure maximum points against Madagascar before attention shifts to the challenging away trip to Guinea-Bissau.
A positive start could provide a significant boost for the Super Eagles as they pursue qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
Training is expected to continue over the coming days as the coaching crew intensifies preparations for what promises to be an important opening test in the qualifying series.
