Super Eagles confirmed XI vs Madagascar: Ilenikhena and Nwabali start

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have named their starting XI for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar, with head coach Eric Chelle handing starts to George Ilenikhena and Akor Adams in attack, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Super Eagles have qualified for each of the last four AFCON tournaments after missing the 2015 and 2017 editions. Nigeria won the AFCON in 2013, claiming their third title in South Africa.

After the Super Eagles missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup, coach Chelle will be keen to wash away that disappointment with a ticket to the continental championship in East Africa next year.

With star striker Victor Osimhen unavailable due to injury, Chelle has put together the strongest possible Super Eagles lineup ahead of the clash with the Barea.

Back on Home Soil 📍#NGAMAD #AFCONQ pic.twitter.com/shMsZkZ3oU

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 25, 2026

Super Eagles confirmed lineup

Stanley Nwabali keeps his place in goal with Arthur Okonkwo and Maduka Okoye, who arrived late to camp because of club commitments, relegated to the bench.

In defence, Chelle has placed his trust in the experienced quartet of Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi form the back four. Three of those formed the strong core for the Super Eagles at the 2025 AFCON earlier in the year.

Aina, though, takes to the pitch in the colours of the Super Eagles for the first time in a year after suffering a long-term injury about 12 months ago, shortly before the start of the 2025 AFCON.

Wilfred Ndidi starts alongside Alex Iwobi in central midfield, giving the Super Eagles a blend of experience, defensive strength and ball-winning ability.

Samuel Chukwueze moves into the attacking midfield unit, while Ademola Lookman provides another major threat from the left side.

Lookman’s pace and ability to attack defenders will be important for Nigeria as they look to break down a Madagascar side expected to defend in numbers.

Ilenikhena and Akor Adams lead the attack

George Ilenikhena gets the nod up front alongside Akor Adams, giving Nigeria two physically imposing options in the final third.

Ilenikhena offers youth, energy and a strong presence around the penalty area, while Adams brings his finishing ability and movement into the attack.

The pairing will be expected to stretch Madagascar’s defence and create space for Lookman and Iwobi to exploit.

Super Eagles confirmed XI vs Madagascar

Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali

Defenders: Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze

Forwards: George Ilenikhena, Akor Adams

Nigeria’s substitutes

Nigeria’s substitutes will provide Chelle with options to alter the game as the qualifier develops, particularly if the Super Eagles need additional creativity, pace or attacking firepower.

The stars available on the bench for Chelle include: Arthur Okonkwo, Maduka Okoye, Brighton Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, Emmanuel Fernandez, Isaac James, Raphael Onyedika, Tolu Arokodare, Moses Usor, Frank Onyeka and Moses Simon.