‎A night to forget for the Super Eagles. Guinea-Bissau dominated Nigeria and secured a 3-0 victory, with Franculino Dju, Mama Baldé and Álvaro Djalo finding the net.

‎Key Takeaway: Nigeria struggled to create enough danger and were punished by Guinea-Bissau's efficiency.

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‎Player of the Match: Franculino Dju

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‎Your take: What went wrong for Nigeria tonight?

‎Both teams started their qualifying campaign with wins. Guinea-Bissau defeated Tanzania 2-0, while Nigeria came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1.

‎Key Battle: Nigeria's attack vs Guinea-Bissau's home advantage.

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‎Super Eagles fans: Can Nigeria make it two wins from two?

‎Nigeria 2-1 Madagascar

‎COMEBACK COMPLETE!

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‎Madagascar shocked Nigeria with an early lead, but the Super Eagles responded through George Ilenikhena before Moses Usor completed the comeback.

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‎Two debutants. Two goals. What a way to announce themselves!

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‎KEY TAKEAWAY: Nigeria didn't have it easy, but they showed character to turn the game around and start their AFCON qualifying campaign with three points.

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‎PLAYER OF THE MATCH: George Ilenikhena

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‎HOW WOULD YOU RATE NIGERIA'S PERFORMANCE OUT OF 10?

‎Nigeria vs Madagascar

‎The Super Eagles begin their AFCON qualifying campaign in Uyo!

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‎Nigeria will be without injured Victor Osimhen, but Lookman, Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Ndidi and Iwobi give Eric Chelle plenty of quality. Madagascar will be hoping to repeat their famous 2-0 win over Nigeria in 2019.

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‎Sept. 25 | Uyo

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‎WHO TAKES THE WIN?

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‎Nigeria - Madagascar

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‎Drop your score prediction!

Predict 2 players to score in each of these fixtures:

‎Nigeria vs Madagascar

‎England vs Spain

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‎Get both correct for a chance to win ₦5,000!

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‎How to enter:

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‎Comment the 2 players you think will score in each match.

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‎Example:

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‎Nigeria vs Madagascar — Osimhen, Lookman

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‎England vs Spain — Saka, Yamal

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‎Who are your two?

So now it’s Moses Simon and Akor Adams saving Nigeria again? Funny how the same team people were calling “finished” suddenly turns into world-beaters the moment they scrape a 2-1 win over Iran. Let’s be honest—one decent performance and everybody starts acting like the Super Eagles have solved all their problems overnight. Where was this energy when the team was struggling and fans were complaining non-stop? Nigerians love to switch narratives faster than the scoreboard changes. Relax, it’s just one match—not a World Cup final.

The Super Eagles are set to face World Cup debutants Jordan national football team in an exciting four-nation tournament that promises to test Nigeria’s strength ahead of upcoming international competitions.

This fixture is more than just another friendly. It is a strategic clash designed to sharpen tactics, assess squad depth, and build chemistry within the team. With global football becoming increasingly competitive, every match now carries weight — even outside major tournaments.

Jordan’s rise has been one of the more inspiring stories in recent international football. After securing qualification for their first-ever FIFA World Cup, they arrive at the tournament with confidence, discipline, and a point to prove. For them, facing a powerhouse like Nigeria is an opportunity to measure their growth against established football pedigree.

For the Super Eagles, this tournament offers a valuable platform to blend experience with fresh talent. Nigerian fans will be watching closely to see how the coaching crew rotates the squad, experiments with formations, and addresses areas that have drawn criticism in recent outings — particularly defensive coordination and clinical finishing.

Four-nation tournaments are often underestimated, but they provide a competitive edge that ordinary friendlies lack. With multiple teams involved, the stakes are naturally higher, and performances can influence rankings, morale, and public confidence.

This encounter between Nigeria and Jordan also represents a broader narrative in global football — emerging nations challenging established forces. It is a reminder that the game is evolving, and no opponent can be taken lightly.

As anticipation builds, supporters will be eager to see whether the Super Eagles assert their dominance or whether Jordan continues its fairytale rise on the international stage.

One thing is certain: this tournament will not just be about preparation — it will be about pride, progress, and proving a point.

World football governing body FIFA is set to deliver a decisive ruling on Monday, February 16, regarding Nigeria’s eligibility protest against DR Congo.

The protest was officially lodged by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following concerns over the eligibility of a player fielded by the DR Congo national football team in a recent fixture involving the Nigeria national football team.

While full details of the complaint have not been publicly disclosed, eligibility cases in international football typically involve issues such as nationality documentation, registration compliance, or administrative irregularities. Such matters are treated seriously by FIFA, as they can directly impact match results, tournament standings, and qualification outcomes.

The decision expected on Monday could carry significant consequences. If the ruling favors Nigeria, it may lead to disciplinary action against DR Congo, including possible forfeiture of the match or a points deduction. On the other hand, if FIFA dismisses the protest, the existing results will stand.

For Nigerian football fans and stakeholders, the outcome is highly anticipated, as it could influence Nigeria’s position in the competition and shape the broader narrative of the campaign.

French media outlet L’Équipe has reported that Nigeria national team head coach Éric Chelle has been offered to Olympique de Marseille, sparking fresh conversations about his future with the Super Eagles and the growing reputation of Nigerian football managers on the global stage.

Chelle, who took charge of Nigeria with the task of rebuilding and stabilising the national team, has been quietly earning plaudits for his tactical discipline and player management. His name now surfacing in discussions around a club as big as Marseille shows how quickly his stock is rising in European football circles.

Marseille, one of France’s most historic clubs, have been searching for a manager capable of restoring consistency and identity to the team. According to L’Équipe, Chelle has been “offered” as a potential option, highlighting that decision-makers see him as a coach with both the temperament and experience to handle pressure at a high-profile club.

For Nigeria, the news comes with mixed emotions. On one hand, it is a badge of honour that the Super Eagles’ coach is being considered by a European giant. On the other, it raises questions about continuity and long-term planning, especially with crucial international fixtures and tournaments on the horizon.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation from Marseille, the Nigeria Football Federation, or Chelle himself. But the report alone is enough to ignite debate among fans: should Chelle remain focused on his Nigerian project, or is a return to club football in Europe the natural next step?

One thing is certain — Nigerian football remains firmly in the global conversation, and any move involving the Super Eagles’ head coach will be watched closely both at home and abroad.

Ademola Lookman is set to begin a new chapter in his career after completing a move to Atlético Madrid from Atalanta.

The deal is worth €35 million, with an extra €5 million in add-ons. After making his final decision last night, Lookman agreed to a long-term contract, and Atlético are now preparing for his travel and medical.

This move comes after an impressive spell in Italy, where Lookman grew into one of Atalanta’s most important players. With his speed, confidence, and eye for goal, he became a fan favourite and a key player for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

Joining Atlético Madrid is a big step forward. Under Diego Simeone, the club is known for hard work and strong team spirit — qualities that fit Lookman’s style perfectly. He is expected to add pace and creativity to their attack.

For Nigerian fans, this transfer is another proud moment. Seeing one of their own move to a top European club is inspiring and shows how far Nigerian football has come.

As he prepares for his medical and official unveiling, excitement is building. All eyes are now on Lookman as he gets ready to shine in La Liga.

The Super Eagles brought festive cheer to Nigerians as they celebrated Christmas while away in Morocco for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Coming off a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their opening fixture—thanks to goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman—the team shared a cheerful video to mark the occasion, spreading holiday spirit despite being far from home.

In the video, several players including Victor Osimhen, Raphael Onyedika, Chigozie Awaziem, Stanley Nwabali, and Wilfried Ndidi appeared alongside members of the coaching team, such as head coach Eric Chelle and assistant coaches Fidelis Ilechukwu and Daniel Ogunmodede, also joined in the greetings, making the clip a full representation of the squad’s unity and camaraderie.

The stars of the Super Eagles wished Nigerians a “Merry Christmas” with warm smiles and festive gestures, showing a lighter, more personal side of the team beyond the competitive atmosphere of the AFCON tournament.

Fans across social media quickly responded, expressing delight at seeing their national heroes in such a joyful moment.

The Federal Government has fulfilled its pledge of housing and land allocations to members of the Super Eagles following their runner-up finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that players have received certificates for the plots of land and housing units promised by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the federation, the documents were presented to the players at the team’s camp in Fez, Morocco, on Monday.

Nigeria finished second at the AFCON tournament, which was played in 2024, after losing 2–1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final.
Following their return from the competition, President Tinubu hosted the players at the Presidential Villa, where he conferred the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) on each squad member. He also announced the allocation of a plot of land in the Federal Capital Territory and a flat to every player in recognition of their performance at the tournament.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have retained the no. 38 position in latest world FIFA men’s world ranking.
The ranking, which wad updated on Monday, had the Super Eagles maintain the position from November, when they had a total of 1,502 points, as there has not been any competitive matches since then.

The Super Eagles, who are currently in Morocco for the 35th edition of AFCON, follow Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria, as African teams in the FIFA rankings.

Morocco are still Africa’s too team, ranked 11th, while Senegal is ranked 19th in the world. Nigeria are ranked 38th, while Algeria and Egypt are ranked 34th and 35th, respectively.

Tunisia, ranked 41st in the world, Côte d’Ivoire, ranked 42nd, Mali, ranked 53rd, DR Congo, ranked 56th, and Cameroon, ranked 57th, are among the other African teams in the top 10 on the continent.

After regaining the top spot from Argentina in September 2025, Spain is still at the top of the global rankings.

The top 10 spots are still occupied by England, Brazil, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Croatia; France completes the podium in third place

Uganda Cranes players have boycotted a training session on Saturday over unpaid allowances, dealing a major blow to the team’s preparations ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
According to reports, several squad members refused to take part in the session in Morocco, citing delays in receiving their payments.

Players are also said to be seeking clarity on the exact allowances they are entitled to during their stay ahead of the tournament.

The development comes just days before Uganda is set to open its Group C campaign against Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles in Fès on Tuesday.

The Cranes face a tough challenge in a group that also features three-time African champions Nigeria and East African rivals Tanzania.

The strike has drawn widespread attention, with reports and social media posts highlighting the disruption to Uganda’s training schedule, raising questions about the team’s readiness for the opening match.

Nigeria’s arrival in Fés on Thursday evening, aboard a chartered flight from their final training camp in Cairo, signalled the reality of a stout challenge for a fourth continental title as the 35th Africa Cup of Nations finals commence in the Kingdom of Morocco on Sunday.
Winners at home in 1980, and in Tunisia in 1994 and South Africa in 2013, the Super Eagles will launch their onslaught for another title against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars on Tuesday in the historical city of Fés, with the added impetus of wanting to appease their teeming fans at home and in the diaspora over failure to qualify for next year’s FIFA World Cup finals in the Far West.

The retirement of William Troost-Ekong, on the margin of the team’s departure to Cairo for their final training camp, has opened the door for midfield enforcer Wilfred Ndidi to take the captain’s armband, with veterans Simon Moses and Alex Iwobi, and prolific forward Victor Osimhen as possible assistants.

The much-anticipated opening ceremony on Sunday, featuring among others, Nigeria’s globally-acclaimed singer Davido at the iconic Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, will be followed by the opening match between hosts Morocco and Comoros, with the Atlas Lions hoping for a great start to continue their incredible run of glory in international football.
Nigeria, who won their first AFCON title on home soil 45 years ago after defeating Tanzania in their first match, will strive for a huge win in order to be in good stead and retain a winning mentality ahead of clashes with difficult customers Tunisia (on Saturday, 27 December) and Uganda (on Tuesday, 30 December).

Coach Eric Chelle opened a window on his frame of mind going into the tournament when he spoke to CAFOnline.com last month. “When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything.” It is the reality that he faces and has to deal with especially after the World Cup miss.

Tanzania, coached by Nigeria legend Emmanuel Amuneke (a 1994 AFCON winner) to qualify and participate at the 2019 finals in Egypt, will be making only their fourth appearance at the competition, and a second consecutive appearance following their outing in Cote d’Ivoire. They have played 9 matches overall, drawing three and losing six, without a single win.

Tunisia have 21 previous appearances at the championship (one more than Nigeria), and consistency is their middle name, Morocco 2025 being their 17th consecutive appearance. Their only previous triumph was on home soil in 2004, when they edged Morocco’s Atlas Lions in a tension-soaked Final in Rades. The Carthage Eagles have played a total of 83 matches at the AFCON, winning 25, losing 28 and drawing 30.

Among their previous losses were a 2-4 reverse to co-hosts Nigeria in 2000, and a lone-goal defeat by the Eagles in the third-place match of the 2019 finals in Egypt. There was another contentious third-place match, in Ghana in 1978, that was awarded to Nigeria after the Carthage Eagles walked off the pitch following a goal by Baba Otu Mohammed. Tunisia eliminated Nigeria in the Round of 16 in Cameroon four years ago.

Uganda’s Cranes have always proved difficult customers for the Super Eagles in any qualifying campaign or championship. Philip Omondi scored both goals to eliminate Nigeria in the semi-finals of the 1978 championship in Ghana, and since then, even with star-studded squads, the Eagles would always struggle against the Cranes. Their clash in Fes on Tuesday, 30th December is something to look forward to.

Uganda will be heading to their eighth participation in the AFCON, though they missed out in the last two finals in Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire. The Cranes have played a total of 23 matches at the finals, winning only 4, drawing 3 and losing 16. Their runner-up position in Ghana in 1978, when they were crushed by Opoku Afriye-led Black Stars in a festive Final in Accra, remains their best result till date.

On the balance, the Super Eagles, who have played a total of 104 matches across their 20 previous outings, are expected to safely negotiate their way through the group stage in Fes, and then take it one-game-at-a-time in the knockout rounds in Morocco.

President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) expressed his belief in the team to deliver in the North African kingdom.

“We have prepared the team with the objective of lifting the trophy. The FIFA World Cup miss still bites, but if we are able to win the Africa Cup of Nations, it will go a long way to assuaging the feelings of our fans at home and in the diaspora, and it will also be good for the present generation of Super Eagles as they will have at least one major triumph to their name.”

Gusau’s administration has done remarkably well to maintain the very best standards in travel, accommodation and other logistics for the team, despite challenging times and downturn in the global economy.

“It has not been easy, but we have to continue to appreciate and show that we value the contributions of the players and officials at all times. They have to travel and lodge in convenience, and that is something we must always find a way to work out despite the challenges that the Federation faces.

“I have confidence in the coaches and the players that we have to turn the present gloom around and make Nigeria proud in Morocco.