We Have To Win Every Game – Frank Onyeka Charges Super Eagles Ahead Of Madagascar Clash

Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka has urged Nigeria to approach every match with the determination to secure victory as the team begins its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar.

Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo at 5 p.m. on Friday, September 25, in their opening Group-stage fixture of the AFCON qualifying series.

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According to Bush Radio Academy, Onyeka stressed the importance of making a strong start to the campaign, particularly after Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking to journalists during a media session in Uyo, the midfielder said the Super Eagles must aim to win every match as they turn their attention to next year’s continental tournament.

“Just like every other match that we’ll be playing, we have to win every game,” Onyeka said.

He acknowledged the disappointment surrounding Nigeria’s failure to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup but said the team must now focus on the AFCON qualifiers and prepare properly for the competition.

“I know we’re quite disappointed not to qualify for the World Cup, but now we’re back. We have something to prepare for, which is the AFCON next year,” he added.

Onyeka also warned his teammates against underestimating Madagascar despite Nigeria having home advantage in the opening fixture. He stressed the need for concentration and respect for the opposition throughout the encounter.

The Brentford midfielder said the Super Eagles would focus primarily on their own performance rather than being distracted by the strengths or weaknesses of their opponents.

“We don’t underestimate anything. We focus only on ourselves. We don’t focus on the opponent. We have to play well to win,” Onyeka said.

The Super Eagles are expected to use the Madagascar encounter as the starting point in their bid to secure qualification for the 2027 AFCON, with Onyeka insisting that the team’s immediate priority is to perform well and secure the desired result on home soil.