Nigeria’s Super Eagles still have a route to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations despite suffering a heavy 3–0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their second qualifying fixture.
The loss in Bissau leaves Eric Chelle’s side with three points from two matches, while Guinea-Bissau have opened up a three-point lead at the top of the group with six points.
Nigeria started their campaign with a 2–1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo, while Guinea-Bissau defeated Tanzania 2–0 before securing another convincing win against the Super Eagles.
The qualification situation is complicated by Tanzania’s status as one of the three hosts of AFCON 2027. As a result, only the highest-ranked non-host nation in Group L will secure qualification from the group.
Despite the setback, Nigeria still have four matches remaining and can collect enough points to revive their campaign.
The Super Eagles will face Tanzania twice in November, first at home before travelling for the return fixture during the November 9–17 international window.
They will then travel to Madagascar in March 2027 before hosting Guinea-Bissau in their final group game.
Nigeria’s remaining AFCON 2027 qualifiers
Nigeria vs Tanzania — November 2026
Tanzania vs Nigeria — November 2026
Madagascar vs Nigeria — March 2027
Nigeria vs Guinea-Bissau — March 2027
Winning the November double-header would significantly improve Nigeria’s position ahead of the final two matches. The outcome of the other fixtures involving Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will also shape the qualification permutations.
The 3–0 defeat means Nigeria also face a sizeable head-to-head disadvantage against Guinea-Bissau, making the return fixture in March potentially crucial if the teams are close on points.
With four games still to play, Nigeria remain in contention, but the Super Eagles will have little margin for further dropped points as they attempt to secure their place at the 2027 tournament.
