Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation, Austin Eguavoen, has dismissed suggestions that Nigeria was handed an easy draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, Eguavoen said the Super Eagles must remain focused and approach each match seriously despite being drawn in Group L alongside Tanzania, Madagascar, and Guinea-Bissau.

“A lot of people think it’s an easy group, but I don’t think so,” Eguavoen said. “Considering our pedigree and performance at the last AFCON, I believe we can qualify, but we must take it one game at a time.”

The former Super Eagles coach recalled Nigeria’s difficult encounters with Guinea-Bissau in recent years, noting that the West African side has consistently proven to be a tough opponent.

He also cautioned against overlooking Madagascar and Tanzania, describing both teams as competitive and steadily improving.

“Madagascar has evolved significantly and is a hard nut to crack. Tanzania was also very difficult when we faced them at the last AFCON,” he added.

The qualifying series will feature 48 nations divided into 12 groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the tournament.

The 2027 AFCON, branded PAMOJA 2027, will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marking the first time the competition will be staged across three countries and the first AFCON hosted in East Africa since 1976.

Eguavoen, who currently serves as senior adviser to Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, expressed confidence that Nigeria has the quality to qualify but stressed that concentration and consistency will be key throughout the campaign.