Nigeria have confirmed the opening fixtures of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with the Super Eagles set to host Madagascar before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.

The Matchday One clash against the Barea of Madagascar will be staged at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Wednesday, September 23. Eric Chelle's side will then make the trip to Morocco for their second qualifier against the Djurtus of Guinea-Bissau on Sunday, September 27.

Nigeria and their three opponents — Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau, and Tanzania — make up the four-team qualifying group. The Taifa Stars of Tanzania are the fourth side in the section.

Strong favourites in familiar company

The Super Eagles enter the qualifiers as clear contenders for top spot, backed by their considerable standing in African football. Nigeria are three-time continental champions and finished third at the most recent edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Morocco.

Chelle's men last took to the pitch in June, when they faced Portugal in an international friendly. That outing will be their most recent competitive preparation before the qualifiers begin in Uyo.

A winning start on home soil against Madagascar would set the tone for Nigeria's push to reach the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, with the Guinea-Bissau fixture offering a second opportunity to bank points early in the campaign.