Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle and captain Wilfred Ndidi have addressed the media ahead of Nigeria’s opening AFCON 2027 qualifier against Madagascar in Uyo.
With expectations high ahead of Friday’s Group D encounter, Chelle was asked how he intends to handle the pressure surrounding the Super Eagles, particularly with supporters expecting Nigeria to begin the campaign with a convincing performance.
The coach insisted that pressure is an unavoidable part of the job and said his focus is on keeping the team concentrated on the task ahead.
According to Chelle, the players must first be ready as a team before carrying out their responsibility to the country.
This is our job. The pressure is a part of the job. We want to stay focused on our group and our team,
he said.
Chelle added that the qualifiers were about to begin and that the team had to be fully prepared, with the final training session providing an opportunity to complete preparations for Madagascar.
Chelle Explains Goalkeeper Situation
The Super Eagles coach was also asked about the late arrival of some of Nigeria’s goalkeepers and the circumstances surrounding their availability.
Chelle explained that one of the players had been given permission to handle an arrangement involving his club but had not returned as initially expected.
He acknowledged that the situation would require him to make decisions but stressed that he would manage the circumstances as preparations continued.
Ndidi Wants Nigeria to Start Strong
Captain Wilfred Ndidi was asked about the importance of starting the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign positively, particularly after Nigeria’s disappointing beginning to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Ndidi acknowledged that the previous experience was a difficult one but insisted that the team has learned from it and is determined to approach the new campaign differently.
The midfielder explained that the opening fixture is crucial because it can establish the momentum and confidence needed for the matches that follow.
The first game is the most important game in every competition. This is qualifiers, so the first game sets the momentum,
Ndidi said.
The captain added that the players are focused and ready to give their best as they begin their journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Chelle Demands Intensity Against Madagascar
Chelle also spoke about his expectations of the Super Eagles on the pitch, calling for aggression, intensity and ambition throughout the encounter.
The coach expressed strong confidence in the quality and mentality of his squad while emphasising that the players must demonstrate their character through their approach to every training session and every match.
He wants Nigeria to make a statement from the beginning of the campaign and show Madagascar the level of intensity they can expect in Uyo.
However, Chelle also warned that the Barea should not be underestimated, describing them as a strong opponent and recalling Madagascar’s 2-0 victory over Nigeria at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
The coach expects a difficult contest and believes his players must be mentally prepared for what he described as a fight.
Chelle also acknowledged that Nigeria has players dealing with injuries but maintained that the squad has enough options to cope with the situation and prepare for the qualifier.
With the disappointment of missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup still fresh, the Super Eagles will now turn their attention to making a positive start to their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign when they face Madagascar in Uyo.
The match will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Friday, September 25, 2026, as Nigeria begins its quest for a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
