AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Madagascar get player boost ahead of clash with Super Eagles

The Barea of Madagascar have stepped up their preparations ahead of Friday’s 2027 AFCON qualifiers clash against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Soccernet.ng reports.

​Nigeria hosts the Malagasy side at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with both teams desperate for maximum points to seize early control of Group L in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

​Madagascar signaled their intent early by arriving in Nigeria on Monday. Head coach Corentin Martins has since been putting his squad through their paces ahead of the encounter.

​Although 25 players were summoned to camp, Martins did not have a full squad until recently. Earlier sessions had only two goalkeepers, including Troyes shot-stopper Zacharie Boucher.

However, Soccernet confirmed that their third goalkeeper joined team training on Thursday. Having a full complement of players provides a timely boost for Martins as he finalizes his tactical plans.

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​Will This Be A Repeat of The 2019 AFCON?

​Visiting African teams have grown increasingly confident when playing in Nigeria, largely because the Super Eagles have often looked unconvincing on home soil in recent years.

​On paper, Nigeria boasts superior individual quality and home advantage. However, Madagascar will draw inspiration from their famous 2-0 triumph over the Super Eagles at the 2019 AFCON. That said, midfielder Rayan Raveloson is the sole surviving member from that historic 2019 squad.

​Heading into Friday's match, the Amedspor star remains pivotal to Barea's ambitions, alongside key forwards Hakim Abdallah and Warren Caddy.

​While Martins will be eager to make a major statement with an upset in Uyo, the sheer depth at coach Éric Chelle’s disposal makes this a must-win fixture for the Super Eagles. For Nigeria, anything short of three points will be deemed a failure.