Super Eagles Flight Delays Hinder AFCON Qualifier Preparations
Preparations for Nigeria's upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania have stalled due to flight schedule disruptions.
The Super Eagles' preparation for Friday's crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania faced unexpected setbacks after both teams experienced flight schedule delays affecting their arrival in Uyo. Sources at the Victor Attah International Airport reported that no Super Eagles players had arrived as of Monday evening, while Tanzania's flight was rescheduled to Tuesday.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle arrived in Uyo early Monday alongside assistant coach Daniel Ogunmodede. However, full team training sessions could not immediately gain momentum as the players remained awaited in camp. Tanzania, the Taifa Stars, are also utilizing the qualifying campaign to prepare for the continental showpiece after securing automatic qualification as co-hosts.
Nigeria currently occupies second place in Group L behind leaders Guinea-Bissau. The Super Eagles hold three points from their opening two fixtures, having defeated Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo before suffering a 3-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau in Bissau. Tanzania sits lower in the group following a 2-0 loss to Guinea-Bissau and a 1-1 draw against Madagascar.
Looking to secure the remaining automatic qualification ticket from the group, Chelle announced a 24-man squad on Saturday. The roster notably excludes star striker Victor Osimhen, who remains sidelined due to injury, mirroring his absence from September's qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
In the absence of Osimhen and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, Coach Chelle recalled Francis Uzoho while handing a maiden invitation to midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi. Other notable call-ups include defenders Olaoluwa Aina and Benjamin Frederick, alongside forwards Moses Usor and Taiwo Awoniyi.
The upcoming fixture marks the first leg of a double-header between Nigeria and Tanzania. Following Friday's match in Uyo, the Super Eagles will travel to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture four days later as they look to strengthen their qualification standing.
Sources
- AFCON qualifiers: Flight schedule delays Eagles, Taifa Stars arrival punchng.com
- Chelle Names 24-Man Super Eagles Squad For Tanzania Double-Header channelstv.com
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