Nigeria vs Madagascar: Rayan Raveloson Sends Bold Message Ahead of 2027 AFCON Qualifier

Rayan Raveloson Sends Message to Super Eagles

Madagascar midfielder Rayan Raveloson insists the Barea have no reason to fear Nigeria ahead of Friday's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo.

Raveloson, who has 48 international caps for Madagascar, believes his team can compete with the Super Eagles when the two sides meet at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

Nigeria and Madagascar are housed in Group L alongside Tanzania and Guinea Bissau, but for the Barea they are hoping to make their second ever appearance at the AFCON.

The Island Nation ranked 104 in the latest FIFA Rankings are already in Uyo; arriving in two batches, but in high spirits ahead of the match.

Nigeria vs Madagascar: Everything You Need to Know

CAF confirms the fixture is scheduled for September 25 at 16:00 GMT.

Raveloson: 'They Are Humans Like Us'

In a chat with Brila.net, Raveloson played down the prospect of facing the three-time African champions.

'It's a football match, they are humans like us we have no reason to be scared,' he said.

Rayan Raveloson Praises Victor Osimhen

Meanwhile, the Midfielder, Raveloson, who plays for Turkish Super Lig side Amed SKspoke positively about Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen, despite the Galatasaray forward being ruled out of Nigeria's opening AFCON 2027 qualifiers through injury.

Osimhen was initially included in Éric Chelle's squad but was subsequently withdrawn after sustaining a muscle injury. As confirmed by CAF.

Nigeria vs Madagascar Head-to-Head

Nigeria and Madagascar will meet for the fourth time in competitive football when the Super Eagles host the Barea in Uyo.

The teams will hold their first training sessions today, although there has been torrential rain fall all day in Uyo.

Why Nigeria vs Madagascar Matters

CAF notes that Nigeria, Madagascar, Tanzania and Guinea-Bissau are in Group L, with Tanzania automatically qualified as a co-host. Consequently, only the highest-ranked team among Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will qualify from the group.

Victor Osimhen to Miss Nigeria vs Madagascar

Victor Osimhen will miss Nigeria's opening 2027 AFCON qualifier against Madagascar as he continues his recovery from a muscle injury. The striker was initially named in Éric Chelle's squad but was subsequently ruled out of both September qualifiers.