Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has emphasized the importance of a strong start as Nigeria prepares to launch its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The three-time African champions host the Barea of Madagascar in their opening Group L fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Nigeria enters the qualifiers carrying the weight of a disappointing campaign that saw the team miss out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup after failing to secure a win in their opening four matches. However, Ndidi has assured fans that the squad has addressed past shortcomings.

“It will never happen again because this is a focused team,” Ndidi told reporters during a press conference in Uyo. “We are planning to set the momentum, because the first game is the most important game in every competition.”

The midfielder stressed that securing an early victory will build vital confidence for the remainder of the qualifying series.

“This is qualifiers, but the first game sets the momentum,” Ndidi added. “So it gives us the confidence to go for the other games coming. We’re ready for it and everyone is focused for it.”