Today, Nigeria will commence their qualifying journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as they battle Madagascar. This Group L clash will be staged at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, to secure all three points at the onset of the qualification stage.
This game is very vital since Tanzania, one of the co-host nations in AFCON 2027, will automatically qualify for the tournament. This means that the other teams left to battle for qualification are Nigeria, Madagascar, and Guinea-Bissau.
Kick-off Time for Nigeria vs Madagascar and Venue
This game will take place in the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, or the Nest of Champions, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
- Kick-off time:
- Nigeria: 5:00 PM WAT
- GMT: 4:00 PM
- India: 9:30 PM IST
- Madagascar: 7:00 PM (local time)
It is going to be the first of two opening qualifiers in Group L for Nigeria. The next match will take place in Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
Squad News for Nigeria: Osimhen out
Victor Osimhen will not participate in the match because of a muscle injury. Initially, he was included in Eric Chelle’s 24-man team, but he did not manage to get ready in time for the September qualifiers.
As a result, Taiwo Awoniyi was recalled to play as Osimhen’s substitute. This player is going to provide Chelle with another choice of centre-forward, together with other offensive players in the squad.
There are also three new members who got the first chance to participate in the national team: George Ilenikhena, Arthur Okonkwo and Isaac James.
About the Match Between Nigeria and Madagascar
Madagascar arrives in Uyo for the first Group L encounter against a Nigerian team that would be adjusting to the absence of Osimhen.
The Barea also have some history with the Super Eagles, having beaten Nigeria 2-0 at the 2019 AFCON tournament. This makes it an interesting rematch as the teams enter another qualifying round.
With only one spot up for grabs among Nigeria, Madagascar, and Guinea-Bissau, the teams might need every point in the opening encounters.
How to Watch Nigeria vs Madagascar Match
The Nigeria team is reported to be on SuperSport TV. In Nigeria, the game will be shown on DStv and GOtv. Viewers are, however, advised to check their EPG as channels can change.
For viewers in other countries, the broadcasters vary according to each respective country. The match will be on Canal+ Sport 1 Afrique in some African countries.
What will come after today’s game?
The next Group L fixture for Nigeria is coming up soon, where the Super Eagles will face Guinea-Bissau on September 29, and Madagascar’s qualification process will keep going.
In the case of Chelle, this first match will be the first time that his team will compete in a tournament after Nigeria’s last AFCON campaign.
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