Nigeria's Super Eagles begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign with two critical fixtures — away to Madagascar and at home to Guinea-Bissau — and they will do so without their most dangerous attacking weapon, Victor Osimhen.

The absence of the prolific striker raises an immediate question: can Eric Chelle's squad find the goals and the consistency needed to collect maximum points from both matches?

Squad depth under the spotlight

With Osimhen unavailable, attention turns to the depth of Chelle's attacking options and his squad selection as a whole. The Nigeria head coach has spoken publicly about demanding aggression and intensity from his players, particularly in the opener against Madagascar.

Chelle's ability to organise a cohesive, high-energy unit in the absence of his first-choice centre-forward will be one of the key talking points heading into these qualifiers.

Opponents not to be underestimated

Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau are not without their own ambitions in Group qualification. Both nations are capable of causing problems for a Nigeria side still finding its feet under a relatively new manager.

The Super Eagles carry historical experience in meetings with Madagascar, but recent form and squad disruptions — Osimhen's absence chief among them — mean Chelle's men cannot afford complacency in either fixture.

What Nigeria must get right

Defensive organisation, creative output in midfield, and clinical finishing from whoever leads the line will be central to Nigeria's chances. The Super Eagles must also maintain focus across two very different tactical challenges — Madagascar away and Guinea-Bissau at home — within the same international window.

These opening qualifiers represent an early opportunity for Nigeria to stamp their authority on the group and set the tone for the road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.