Super Eagles could host November AFCON qualifiers in Lagos – Report

Nigeria's Super Eagles have been playing their home games at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium for the last few years, but that could change soon, with reports stating that a potential switch to Lagos is in the works.

​Uyo has been Nigeria's regular venue for all home matches since 2022. Currently, the Super Eagles are embroiled in crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and they played their first game against Madagascar at home at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium last month. They won that match 2-1.

​However, in their second game, against Guinea-Bissau, they suffered one of their most embarrassing defeats against another African team, falling 3-0.

​Their next round of matches is against Tanzania. It is, in fact, a double-header, with Nigeria hosting them first before traveling to Zanzibar City for the return fixture.

​Heading into those fixtures next month, there is a possibility that the home clash against Tanzania will be moved to the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos rather than the usual Uyo venue. The exact reason has not been confirmed yet, but reports suggest the option is currently under consideration.

​Can Teslim Balogun Host The Super Eagles?

​In the early 2000s, Lagos was the home of the Super Eagles. In fact, the final of the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations was played at the National Stadium in Surulere, where Cameroon defeated Nigeria 4-3 on penalties to be crowned champions.

​However, over the years, due to a poor maintenance culture and corruption, Lagos stadiums have deteriorated significantly from their former standard.

​Nonetheless, Soccernet has gathered that the Teslim Balogun Stadium has been undergoing renovation and now has a proper natural grass pitch, while other key facilities are also being upgraded.

​By November, when the qualifiers are scheduled to take place, there is a possibility that all work will be completed. Even so, in Nigeria, things do not always go according to plan.

​Another obstacle is that CAF has not yet approved the venue. The Nigeria Football Federation will need to resolve this inspection and certification process as soon as possible.

​It has been a long time since Lagos hosted a Super Eagles match. As such, the stadium will undoubtedly be packed to capacity if everything proceeds as intended.