Super Eagles Begin AFCON Qualifiers Preparations As Iwobi, Lookman, Bassey Arrive Camp

The Super Eagles have commenced preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, with 20 players arriving at the team’s camp in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom.

The early arrivals include several key members of the national team such as Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi, as the team begins its build-up ahead of the crucial qualifying fixtures.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), other players currently in camp are Simon Moses, Akor Adams, Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredericks, Moses Uzor and George Ilenikhena.

Also among those who have reported are Arthur Okonkwo, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Tolu Arokodare, Bruno Onyemaechi, Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka.

The Super Eagles Media Officer, Promise Efoghe, confirmed that more players were expected to join the team, including Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

“Camp opened today, and preparations have commenced for the qualifiers,” Efoghe told NAN.

Nigeria’s qualifying campaign will begin with a home fixture against Madagascar in Uyo on September 25, before the team travels to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.

The Super Eagles are also scheduled to play an international friendly against Russia on October 6 as part of their preparations.

Efoghe disclosed that the team’s first training session would take place on Tuesday, with the opening 15 minutes available to accredited media personnel.

He added that players would be available for media engagements on Wednesday at the team’s base in Ikot Ekpene, with details to be communicated later.

The technical crew is expected to use the training sessions to assess the players’ fitness levels and build cohesion ahead of the upcoming fixtures.