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Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has named a strong lineup for today’s crucial Afcon 2027 qualifier against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Soccernet.ng reports.
The clash marks Nigeria’s first game of the qualifiers in Group L, with another game against Guinea-Bissau set to hold next week as they target maximum points from both encounters.
Nigeria and Madagsacar have met in recent times and the three-time African champions have won three of the last five. However, Madagascar wom the most recent meeting between them in 2019, sealing a 2-0 win during the group stages of the AFCON tournament.
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Super Eagles newboy George Ilenikhena makes his debut for the national team, while Stanley Nwabali and Ola Aina both return to the lineup after several months out.
Here is the confirmed Super Eagles starting XI vs Madagascar
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
The Chippa United goalkeeper makes his return to the lineup for the first time since the 2025 AFCON tournament and is preferred to Maduka Okoye, who only arrived camp today, and Arthur Okonkwo in goal.
Right-back: Ola Aina
Aina is another player who is making his return after a long time away. The Nottingham Forest defender has missed several games for the national team with injury, but is back as a starter with Bright Osayi-Samuel dropping to the bench.
Left-back: Bruno Onyemaechi
The 27-year-old makes his 31st appearance for the Super Eagles and will be hoping for another impressive showing at left back.
Centre-back: Calvin Bassey
Bassey starts as expected alongside his defensive partner Semi Ajayi in the heart of the Super Eagles defence.
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Centre-back: Semi Ajayi
The Hull City defender partners Bassey in a very strong and experienced backline and will be hoping to continue his fine form at club level against the Barea.
Midfield: Wilfred Ndidi
The Super Eagles captain makes his 80th appearance for the national team where he will be tasked with providing the shield for the backline in the clash.
Midfield: Alex Iwobi
Fulham midfielder Iwobi will partner Ndidi in midfield and will be tasked with creating chances for the attack.
Left-wing: Ademola Lookman
Lookman will be hoping for another impressive showing in the green and white colours of the Super Eagles and could embrace the role of the main man in the absence of Victor Osimhen.
Right-wing: Samuel Chukwueze
Chukwueze returns to the lineup for his 60th cap for the national team.
Striker: George Ilenikhena
The Al Ittihad striker makes his debut for the national team after earning his maiden call-up. The youngster will be hoping to make a big impact in Osimhen’s absence as he partners Akor Adams upfront.
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Striker: Akor Adams
The Venezia man partners Ilenikhena in attack and will look to prove his worth to Chelle once again in the clash.
Confirmed starting XI:
Nwabali (GK), Ajayi, Bassey, Aina, Bruno, Ndidi, Iwobi, George, Akor, Chukwueze, Lookman.
Substitutes:
Arokodare, Awoniyi, Benjamin, Nwaiwu, Osayi-Samuel, Okoye (GK), Fernandez, Isaac, Simon, Onyedika, Moses, Onyeka.
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