No Mercy for Madagascar: Chelle Demands Good Start from Super Eagles

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has called on his players to make a strong and positive start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign when they face Madagascar on Friday, Naijasports reports.

Nigeria will begin their journey towards the 2027 AFCON at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with the Super Eagles welcoming Madagascar’s Barea in their opening qualifying fixture.

With the campaign about to get underway, Chelle has stressed the importance of starting on the front foot and showing from the very beginning that Nigeria are serious about securing a place at the continental showpiece.

The Super Eagles boss wants his players to approach the encounter with determination, energy and a clear desire to take all three points, insisting there can be no room for hesitation once the game gets underway.

“We have to show everyone from Day One that we want it, and the only way to do that is to go for it with our hearts and refuse to slow down at any point,” Chelle said.

“We must go for the points without any hesitation.”

Chelle’s message underlines the importance of Friday’s encounter, with Nigeria keen to put their qualifying campaign on the right track from the opening whistle.

The Super Eagles have assembled a blend of experienced campaigners and new faces, and Chelle will now look to translate the determination within camp into a convincing performance against the Barea.

For Nigeria, it is more than simply getting the qualifying campaign underway. A good start would provide the platform for the Super Eagles to build momentum as they begin their quest for a place at AFCON 2027.

With Friday fast approaching, Chelle’s message is clear: Nigeria must show they want it, fight for every point and give Madagascar no room to breathe.

The road to AFCON 2027 begins in Uyo tomorrow by 5pm (WAT) and the Super Eagles intend to start it on the right note.