Nigeria host Madagascar on 25 September 2026 at 19:00 in the opening round of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification at Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The Super Eagles missed consecutive World Cups but reached the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and semifinals of the 2021 tournament. Madagascar's last 18 qualifying matches across the continental competition have yielded just two wins, though they hold a memorable 2-0 victory over Nigeria from the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations group stage.
Victor Osimhen misses out through injury, but Nigeria retain attacking depth with Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi and Akor Adams available. Ola Aina returns to the squad. Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye compete for the goalkeeper role. Madagascar manager Corentin Martins calls on Marco Ilaimaharitra, Rayan Raveloson and Thomas Fontaine for experience, with Warren Caddy returning and Romain Ferrier earning a first call-up.
Form and H2H
Nigeria's home record over their last ten matches reads five wins, four draws and one loss, averaging 1.84 goals for and 0.81 against. Away from home, Madagascar have won five of their last ten, drawn two and lost three, scoring 1.82 goals per game and conceding 1.75. The teams met at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations with Madagascar winning 2-0.
Best bet
Nigeria to win by two or more goals. The Super Eagles' home form and attacking options should prove decisive against a Madagascar side that has struggled in qualifying. Lookman and Iwobi can exploit spaces in the visitors' defence. Back a Nigeria win at 1.17 with Melbet, 1.18 with 1xBet or 22Bet, or 1.17 with Mostbet.
Odds to watch
The draw sits at 6.2 with Melbet, 1xBet and 22Bet, or 5.1 with Mostbet. Madagascar's odds of 14.4 with Melbet, 1xBet and 22Bet, or 12 with Mostbet, reflect their qualifying struggles and the gap in continental pedigree.
Portugal
Poland
Jamaica
Zimbabwe
Jordan
Morocco
Equatorial Guinea
Kyrgyzstan
Mali
