AFCON 2025
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on Friday, September 25, when they host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time, with the fixture serving as Matchday 1 of Group L
Nigeria are drawn alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and co-hosts Tanzania. Because Tanzania have already secured an automatic place at the 2027 tournament as one of the three hosts, only the highest-ranked team among Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will qualify from Group L.
That makes Friday’s opening fixture particularly important for Eric Chelle’s side, who will travel to face Guinea-Bissau in their second qualifying match four days later.
Nigeria without Osimhen
The Super Eagles will be without Victor Osimhen for the opening September qualifiers after the striker was ruled out through injury. Taiwo Awoniyi was subsequently called into the squad as his replacement.
Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon and the other attacking options in Chelle’s squad will therefore be expected to provide the attacking threat against a Madagascar side that has already shown it can cause problems for Nigeria.
Madagascar famously defeated the Super Eagles 2-0 at the 2019 AFCON, one of the most notable results between the two countries. Nigeria, however, have won three of the five previous meetings, with one draw and one defeat.
Tickets available in Uyo
Supporters in Uyo can attend the game with tickets reportedly available from designated sales points in the city.
The published prices are:
- VIP — ₦3,000
- Regular — ₦1,000
Tickets are available at designated points including the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and Uyo Township Stadium, alongside selected approved vendors.
Fans attending the match are expected to arrive early to allow enough time for entry and security checks ahead of the 5:00 p.m. kick-off.
Where to watch Nigeria vs Madagascar
For viewers unable to attend in Uyo, SuperSport is listed as the broadcaster for Nigerian viewers, with coverage available through DStv and GOtv. The exact channel allocation should be checked on the electronic programme guide before kick-off, as listings can change.
Across Africa, Canal+ Sport 1 Afrique is also listed for the fixture, while international broadcast arrangements vary by territory. In the United States, beIN SPORTS and its distribution partners have listed the match.
Fans are advised to use official broadcast and streaming platforms rather than unofficial streams.
Chadian referee appointed
Chadian referee Alhadji Allaou Mahamat has been appointed to officiate the encounter at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
The Super Eagles will be looking to begin the qualifying campaign with three points before turning their attention to the trip to Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
With Tanzania already guaranteed a place at AFCON 2027, every point in Group L carries added importance. For Nigeria, the first opportunity to establish their position in the group comes on home soil in Uyo.
