AFCON 2027: Lookman says Super Eagles ready for Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman says Nigeria are determined to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with victories over Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.

Lookman acknowledged that both opponents would pose a difficult challenge but said the Super Eagles were focused on securing maximum points from the two matches.

“The whole team is really looking forward to it. Two very important matches are coming up, and the opponents are, of course, tough to face,” Lookman said.

“But we’re eager to win both of these games. We know the matches will be difficult, but we’ll do everything we can to achieve it.”

Head coach Eric Chelle has named a 24-man squad for the two qualifiers, with Lookman included alongside captain Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze.

Chelle also handed first senior invitations to Isaac James, George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor for the qualifying campaign.

Nigeria’s opening two matches will be the first competitive fixtures of the campaign as the Super Eagles seek qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament, which will be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

Lookman said the players were aware of the importance of the fixtures and would approach both matches with the aim of collecting points.

The Super Eagles will face Madagascar in Uyo before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for the second fixture on September 29.