The Super Eagles have commenced preparation for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with 20 players already in camp ahead of Friday’s clash with Madagascar.
Nigeria opened camp in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, on Monday as players began arriving at the team base ahead of the Group C opener at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The team’s first training session is scheduled for Tuesday, September 22, with the opening 15 minutes open to the media.
Players in camp are Simon Moses, Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi, Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredericks, Moses Uzor, George Ilenikhena, Arthur Okonkwo, Alex Iwobi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Ademola Lookman, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Tolu Arokodare, Bruno Onyemaechi, Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka.
Goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye are yet to arrive.
Head coach Eric Chelle named a 24-man squad for the opening qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, with Nottingham Forest striker Awoniyi drafted in to replace injured captain Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen’s absence will leave Chelle with different attacking options for the start of the campaign.
Madagascar have also arrived in Nigeria, landing on Monday afternoon to step up preparations for the encounter.
The Super Eagles will hope to start their campaign with a positive result against Madagascar before shifting focus to their next qualifier against Guinea-Bissau.
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