The Super Eagles of Nigeria officially stepped up their preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Tuesday night, holding their first training session under the floodlights at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium training pitch in Uyo.
Sports247 reports, with Friday’s crucial encounter against Madagascar drawing closer, head coach Eric Chelle and his technical crew put 23 players through a carefully managed evening session designed primarily to ease the effects of travel and restore the squad’s physical sharpness.
Rather than an intense tactical workout, the session focused largely on recovery, movement and fitness as several players continued to settle into camp following long journeys from their respective clubs.
The coaching crew deployed agility ladders, cones and agility hurdles during the session, with the exercises aimed at improving coordination, balance, footwork, mobility and overall sharpness.
Despite the relatively light nature of the workout, the session provided the technical crew with an opportunity to assess the players as preparations began in earnest for the Madagascar test.
The 23 players who took part included Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi, Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Frederick, Moses Usor, George Ilenikhena and goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.
Also involved were experienced Super Eagles regulars Alex Iwobi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Ademola Lookman and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Chibuike Nwaiwu, Tolu Arokodare, Bruno Onyemaechi, Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka were also part of the workout, alongside Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The presence of 23 players represents another step forward for Chelle as the squad gradually takes shape ahead of Friday’s encounter.
The intensity is expected to increase on Wednesday, with the Super Eagles set to move from recovery work into more demanding tactical and technical preparations.
With Madagascar waiting on Friday, Chelle and his players will have limited time to fine-tune their approach, build understanding within the squad and prepare for what promises to be an important AFCON qualifying fixture.
