Lagos in Line to Host Super Eagles’ AFCON Qualifier as CAF Approval Awaits
Nigeria's Super Eagles may relocate their home games from Uyo to Lagos, with the Teslim Balogun Stadium being considered for upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. This potential move follows ongoing renovations at the Lagos venue and aims to bring the national team back to its historic home, pending CAF approval.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles could play their home 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Tanzania at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos, potentially ending the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium’s run as their regular home venue since 2022. Reports indicate the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is considering the switch, though it has not officially confirmed the reason for the proposed relocation. Uyo hosted Nigeria’s opening qualifier against Madagascar on September 25, when the Super Eagles came from behind to win 2–1. They subsequently lost 3–0 to Guinea-Bissau away from home on September 29, leaving the team looking to recover in the remaining fixtures.
The proposed Lagos fixture is part of a scheduled double-header against Tanzania, with Nigeria hosting the first leg before travelling to Zanzibar City for the return match. The Teslim Balogun Stadium is undergoing renovation, including the replacement of its artificial turf with a natural grass pitch and upgrades to other facilities.
According to reports, work could be completed in time for the November qualifiers, although the timeline remains uncertain. The stadium has yet to receive approval from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), meaning the NFF must complete the necessary inspection and certification process before the venue can be confirmed.
Lagos has a significant history in Nigerian football, having served as a major home venue for the national team in the early 2000s. The city hosted the final of the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations at the National Stadium in Surulere, where Cameroon defeated Nigeria 4–3 on penalties after a 2–2 draw to win the title.
However, years of deterioration at some Lagos stadiums have raised questions about maintenance and infrastructure, making the ongoing work at Teslim Balogun an important part of the proposed return. If the renovation is completed and CAF grants approval, Lagos could host the Super Eagles in November, but the venue change remains unconfirmed.