Super Eagles Fly To Bissau After Madagascar Comeback
By AUGUSTUS ISICHEI
THE Super Eagles have departed Uyo for Bissau ahead of Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying clash with Guinea-Bissau.
Nigeria’s squad travelled on Sunday, less than 48 hours after securing a 2–1 comeback victory over Madagascar in their Group L opener at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Before leaving Uyo, the team held a closed-door training session. They then headed to the airport for the scheduled flight to Guinea-Bissau.
The victory over Madagascar gave coach Éric Chelle’s side three points. However, the quick turnaround leaves the team with limited time to recover and prepare for another demanding away fixture.
Madagascar stunned the home crowd by taking the lead through Ehsan Kari in the 15th minute. Nigeria, however, responded strongly before half-time.
Debutant George Ilenikhena restored parity in stoppage time, while another debutant, Moses Usor, completed the comeback in the 65th minute.
Consequently, the Super Eagles began their qualifying campaign with three points. Nevertheless, Chelle knows the next assignment will require a different tactical approach.
After the Madagascar match, the coach said Guinea-Bissau would present a different challenge because of the team’s strengths and weaknesses.
He also avoided confirming whether Nigeria would retain the tactical system used against Madagascar. Instead, Chelle said his immediate focus was on analysing the opening match and preparing specifically for the next opponent.
Meanwhile, Guinea-Bissau also opened their campaign with a victory. The Djurtus defeated Tanzania 2–0 away from home and currently sit above Nigeria on goal difference in Group L.
Nigeria will therefore enter Tuesday’s encounter looking to build on the Uyo victory. At the same time, Chelle will continue reshaping the squad after Nigeria missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles remain without Victor Osimhen for the opening qualifiers after the striker suffered a muscle injury. Taiwo Awoniyi was subsequently called up as his replacement.
With another training session scheduled in Bissau, Chelle will have one final opportunity to fine-tune his plans before Nigeria face Guinea-Bissau at the Estádio 24 de Setembro on Tuesday.
