AFCON Qualifiers: Lagos in line to host Super Eagles as CAF approval awaits

Nigeria’s Super Eagles could play their home Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Tanzania at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos instead of their usual venue in Uyo.

According to reports, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is considering moving the match to Lagos, although the reason for the possible change has not been confirmed.

The Super Eagles have played their home matches at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, since 2022.

Nigeria recently hosted Madagascar in an AFCON qualifier at the stadium on September 25, winning 2-1. However, the team suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their next match.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Tanzania in a double-header next month. Nigeria will host the first leg before travelling to Zanzibar City for the return match.

Teslim Balogun Stadium undergoing renovation

Lagos was once the main home of the Super Eagles. The city hosted the final of the 2000 AFCON at the National Stadium in Surulere, where Cameroon defeated Nigeria 4-3 on penalties to win the tournament.

However, poor maintenance over the years has affected the condition of Lagos stadiums.

Recent reports indicate that the Teslim Balogun Stadium is undergoing renovation. The stadium now has a natural grass pitch, while other important facilities are also being upgraded.

If the renovation work is completed before November, the stadium could be ready to host the Super Eagles’ match against Tanzania.

However, the venue has not yet received approval from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The NFF must complete the necessary inspection and certification process before the stadium can be approved for the match.

A return to Lagos would be significant for the Super Eagles, who have not played there for a long time. The match could attract a large crowd if the proposed move is approved.