Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka has called for a focused approach from Nigeria ahead of Friday’s AFCON 2027 qualifier against Madagascar in Uyo.
Speaking with SoftFootball Media, Onyeka acknowledged the disappointment surrounding Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but stressed that the Super Eagles must now turn their attention to the next challenge.
The midfielder said the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign provides Nigeria with a fresh objective, with the players determined to approach every match with the intention of collecting three points.
According to Onyeka, Friday’s fixture should be treated like any other important game, with the Super Eagles focused on producing a strong performance and getting the desired result in front of their home supporters.
The midfielder also reflected on Nigeria’s previous encounter with Madagascar at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, when the Barea defeated the Super Eagles.
However, Onyeka insisted that the past result will not change Nigeria’s approach to Friday’s game. He made it clear that the Super Eagles are not underestimating Madagascar, but are instead concentrating on what they need to do on the pitch.
We focus on ourselves, we don’t focus on our opponents. We have to play well to win,
Onyeka said.
The midfielder believes Nigeria’s attention should remain on their own performance, with good football and collective effort regarded as the key ingredients for securing victory.
As the Super Eagles prepare to begin their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign, Onyeka and his teammates will be hoping to put their World Cup disappointment behind them and start the new journey with a positive result in Uyo.
