Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman says Nigeria are determined to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with victories over Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Nigeria will open their qualifying campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Thursday, September 25, before travelling to Bissau for a second fixture against Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.
Key Takeaways
- Ademola Lookman says Nigeria want to win their opening two 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
- The Super Eagles will face Madagascar in Uyo on September 25.
- Nigeria will travel to Guinea-Bissau for their second qualifying fixture on September 29.
- Lookman acknowledged that both opponents will provide difficult tests.
- The forward has made seven appearances for Atletico Madrid this season, scoring once, according to the supplied report.
Lookman Sets Target For Super Eagles
Lookman said the Super Eagles are looking forward to the two important fixtures but understand the challenges that Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau could present.
The forward stressed that Nigeria’s immediate objective is to collect maximum points from both 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 in an interview with Sporty TV.
“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.”
His comments underline Nigeria’s ambition to make a positive start to the qualifying campaign.
Nigeria Begins AFCON Qualifying Campaign
The Super Eagles will begin their campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Thursday, September 25.
Nigeria will then travel to Bissau for their second qualifying fixture against Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.
The two matches will give Eric Chelle’s side an early opportunity to build momentum in the race for a place at the 2027 AFCON.
Lookman Acknowledges Tough Tests
While targeting victories in both fixtures, Lookman recognised that Nigeria cannot take either opponent lightly.
The Atletico Madrid forward described the upcoming games as difficult but maintained that the Super Eagles are prepared to give everything to secure the desired results.
His assessment reflects the importance of the opening fixtures as Nigeria begins its latest AFCON qualification campaign.
Super Eagles Enter New AFCON Qualifying Campaign
According to the supplied report, the Madagascar fixture will be Nigeria’s first competitive match on the continent since the Super Eagles defeated Egypt on penalties in the 2025 AFCON third-place clash on January 17, 2026.
The return to competitive action on the continent therefore provides Nigeria with a new opportunity to begin another AFCON qualification campaign.
The Super Eagles will first have to negotiate the Madagascar test in Uyo before turning their attention to the trip to Guinea-Bissau.
Lookman’s Club Form
Nigeria will also have the experience of Lookman available as the Super Eagles begin their qualifying campaign.
The forward has made seven appearances in all competitions for Atletico Madrid so far this season and has scored one goal, according to the supplied article.
His presence adds experience to a Nigeria squad preparing for two early qualification fixtures.
What Comes Next For Nigeria
The immediate task for Eric Chelle’s team is the opening qualifier against Madagascar in Uyo on Thursday, September 25.
The Super Eagles will then travel to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.
Lookman’s stated objective is clear: Nigeria want to secure victories in both matches and make a strong beginning to their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will Nigeria face in their first 2027 AFCON qualifier?
Nigeria will face Madagascar in their opening qualifying fixture.
When will Nigeria play Madagascar?
The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Madagascar on Thursday, September 25.
Where will Nigeria play Madagascar?
The match will be played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Who will Nigeria face in their second qualifier?
Nigeria will travel to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau.
When is the Guinea-Bissau match?
The second fixture is scheduled for Tuesday, September 29.
What does Ademola Lookman want from Nigeria’s opening matches?
Lookman said the Super Eagles are eager to win both of their opening qualifying matches despite expecting difficult tests from Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Super Eagles Target Strong AFCON Qualifying Start
Nigeria will begin the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign with consecutive fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
With Ademola Lookman expressing the team’s desire to win both matches, attention now turns to the Super Eagles’ opening fixture in Uyo and their subsequent trip to Bissau.
