The Super Eagles of Nigeria held their first training session ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying clash against Madagascar, scheduled for Friday, September 25 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Watch the highlight of the First Training Session Ahead of Madagascar Clash captured by Softfootball
The session took place on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, under the floodlights at the stadium’s training pitch, where head coach Éric Chelle and his technical crew began putting the squad through their opening workout as preparations officially kicked off.
Softfootball has been live on the ground in Uyo, with Our journalist Confidence Chibueze providing coverage, interviews and updates as Nigeria builds towards Friday’s encounter.
Exclusive SoftFootball Interviews from Uyo
Frank Onyeka: Music, Affirmations, Prayer and Focus
Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka spoke to Softfootball about his matchday habits, explaining how music, positive affirmations, prayer and self‑talk help him prepare.
Watch the Video Below;
He revealed that his music choice depends on his mood, with Afrobeats often part of his routine. Asked for the one word he tells himself before a game, Onyeka replied:
Focus.
He also shared details about the items he carries in his matchday bag and confirmed that his wife is the first person he speaks to after a match.
Moses Usor: “A Good Feeling Being Among Top Players”
Super Eagles forward Moses Usor reflected on what it means to join the national team setup and share the dressing room with players he grew up watching on television. This was his statement;
It is a good feeling being amongst the top players I have been watching on TV.
Watch the Interview below;
Usor expressed excitement about training and competing alongside Nigeria’s top talents as he prepares for his first AFCON qualifying window.
Arthur Okonkwo: “I Want to Play for My Country Again”
Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo spoke exclusively with Softfootball about Nigeria’s preparations and what representing the Super Eagles means to him. He added;
I want to play for my country again.
Watch the Interview below;
Okonkwo trained on Nigerian soil for the first time on Tuesday, marking a memorable moment in his international journey.
23 Players Take Part in First Training Session
A total of 23 players participated in the evening session as Chelle began shaping his squad for the important AFCON qualifier.
Goalkeepers
- Arthur Okonkwo
- Stanley Nwabali
Defenders
- Isaac James
- Emmanuel Fernandez
- Benjamin Frederick
- Semi Ajayi
- Calvin Bassey
- Ola Aina Bright
- Osayi‑Samuel
- Chibuike Nwaiwu
- Bruno Onyemaechi
Midfielders
- Alex Iwobi Raphael
- Onyedika
- Frank Onyeka
- Wilfred Ndidi
Forwards
- Moses Simon
- Akor Adams
- Taiwo Awoniyi
- Moses Usor
- George Ilenikhena
- Ademola Lookman
- Tolu Arokodare
- Samuel Chukwueze
With the first session completed, training intensity will increase as Chelle and his staff turn their attention to tactical and technical details for Friday’s match.
