Madagascar head coach Corentin Martins says his team are motivated and prepared to challenge Nigeria when the Barea face the Super Eagles in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture in Uyo on Friday.

The French coach acknowledged the quality within the Nigerian squad but said Madagascar are ready to compete collectively as they begin their qualification campaign at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. 

Martins said his players have been preparing carefully for the encounter despite the demands of their journey to Nigeria.

“There’s a lot of motivation. We’re playing for a big African nation, with good players. We’ve prepared well, trying to recover from our long trip. We’re motivated to play well,” Martins said. 

The Madagascar coach will also be hoping his players can draw inspiration from the country’s memorable victory over Nigeria at the 2019 AFCON.

Madagascar defeated the Super Eagles 2-0 in Alexandria in their final group-stage match, with Nomenjanahary and Andriamahitsinoro scoring for the Barea.

The victory was particularly significant because Madagascar were appearing at the AFCON for the first time and subsequently advanced all the way to the quarter-finals. 

That result remains Madagascar’s only victory against Nigeria in five senior international meetings. Nigeria have won three of the other four encounters, while one ended in a draw. 

Martins will now attempt to use that history as psychological encouragement as Madagascar seek another positive result against the three-time African champions.

The Barea arrived in Nigeria earlier this week ahead of Friday’s encounter, with Martins leading a 24-man squad for the opening qualifier. 

Madagascar have also recalled experienced players such as Rayan Raveloson and Thomas Fontaine, while Warren Caddy returns to strengthen the attacking options.

Goalkeeper Zacharie Boucher was initially included in the squad but was subsequently reported to have been withdrawn following controversy surrounding comments he made about Madagascar in 2018. 

The Barea are seeking a return to the AFCON finals after failing to qualify for the 2021, 2023 and 2025 editions of the tournament.

Their recent qualifying record has been modest, with Martins tasked with guiding the team back to the continental showpiece and building on the country’s historic 2019 campaign. 

The challenge in Uyo will be considerable, with Nigeria determined to begin their own qualification campaign positively following their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Martins, however, believes Madagascar have prepared sufficiently to make the contest competitive and will look to the 2019 victory for confidence as the Barea attempt to repeat one of the biggest upsets in their football history.