The Super Eagles have stepped up preparations for Friday’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar, with 20 players now in camp in Uyo ahead of the highly anticipated encounter.
Sports247 reports that several players arrived on Monday, while others touched down in the early hours of Tuesday as head coach Eric Chelle’s squad gradually takes shape ahead of the fixture scheduled for 5pm on Friday.
Among those already in camp are Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi, Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Frederick, Moses Usor, George Ilenikhena and goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.
The experienced core of the squad is also represented, with Alex Iwobi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Ademola Lookman and Bright Osayi-Samuel joining the group.
Chibuike Nwaiwu, Tolu Arokodare, Bruno Onyemaechi, Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka complete the list of 20 players currently available in camp.
The Nigerian camp is expected to become even stronger before noon, with four additional players scheduled to arrive.
Besiktas midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye are expected to link up with their teammates as preparations intensify.
The arrival of the quartet will further boost the squad as the coaching crew moves towards having the full complement of players available for the crucial qualifier.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to hold their first training session today, giving Chelle and his technical crew an opportunity to begin tactical preparations for Madagascar.
With the match approaching rapidly, attention will now turn to building cohesion within the squad, assessing the players physically and tactically, and developing the game plan for Friday’s encounter.
Nigeria will be looking to make the most of home advantage when they face Madagascar, with the Super Eagles expected to leave no stone unturned as they continue their quest for qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament.
For Chelle and his players, the countdown has officially entered a critical phase.This version keeps the tone fast, authoritative and newsroom-driven, while making the growing camp and first training session the central storyline.
