Super Eagles head coach, Éric Chelle, has charged his players to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on a strong note as they prepare for crucial fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
The three-time African champions will take on Madagascar’s Barea and Guinea-Bissau’s Djurtus in a double-header this month as they commence their quest for a place at the continental showpiece.
Chelle emphasised the importance of securing maximum points from the opening games, insisting that his side must demonstrate their determination from the outset.
“We have to show everyone from Day One that we want it, and the only way to do that is to go for it with our hearts and refuse to slow down at any point. We must go for the points without any hesitation,” Chelle told theff.com.
Nigeria heads into the qualifiers with a favourable record against Madagascar, having won three of their five previous meetings. Madagascar has recorded one victory, while the other encounter ended in a draw.
However, the Barea famously stunned the Super Eagles 2-0 during their last meeting in the group stage of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
With qualification for the 2027 AFCON at stake, Chelle will be hoping his side can make an early statement and avoid any slip-ups in their opening matches.
