AFCON 2025
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle landed in Uyo on Monday afternoon to begin preparations for the crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania.
Chelle flew into Nigeria on Monday morning and took a connecting flight to Uyo through the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport.
The Franco-Malian faces a stern test against Tanzania as the Super Eagles try to revive their AFCON qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles must win both games against the Taifa Stars, or they risk missing next year’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Only one team will qualify from the group, because Tanzania already holds a place as one of the 2027 co-hosts.
Guinea-Bissau beat Nigeria 3-0 on matchday two and now lead Group L with six points from two matches.
Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will therefore fight for the single ticket, and the Djurtus already hold the advantage.
Meanwhile, Chelle has picked a 24-man squad for the double-header with a couple of notable players absent including Victor Osimhen, who is recovering from a knee injury.
Chelle overlooked Kelechi Iheanacho, despite the striker’s superb form for Bursaspor and his impact in October’s three-all draw with Russia.
Nigeria host Tanzania in the first leg at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, then travel to the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar for the return on Tuesday, November 17, 2026.
The two sides last met in Nigeria’s opening match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman scored to give the Super Eagles victory.
