Super Eagles set for Lagos return as ‘new-look’ stadium takes shape?

Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen, Francis Uzoho and Calvin Bassey. Copyright: xVincentxKAMTOxImago

Super Eagles of Nigeria could be in line for a return to Lagos following the major facelift of the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Lagos State-owned facility has undergone significant rehabilitation ahead of the inaugural National Intermediate Sports Festival, EKO 2026, with the work giving the stadium a noticeably different appearance.

The development has renewed interest in whether the iconic venue could once again welcome Nigeria’s senior men’s national team.

Soccer Teslim Balogun Stadium gets major facelift

The football pitch has been replaced with a natural-grass surface, while the spectator stands have been fitted with new plastic seats.

The stadium has also undergone extensive painting, while work continues on the tartan athletics track and other sections of the facility.

The rehabilitation is part of Lagos State’s preparations to host EKO 2026 from October 1 to 15, with Teslim Balogun Stadium set to host the opening and closing ceremonies.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently inspected the ongoing work and confirmed that several aspects of the rehabilitation had been completed.

The wider renovation also includes improvements to the indoor sports hall, swimming pool, floodlights, electronic scoreboard and VIP and VVIP areas.

The Super Eagles last played at Teslim Balogun Stadium in March 2021, when they defeated Lesotho 3-0 in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Nigeria have since played their home fixtures at different venues across the country, with the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo becoming one of the team’s regular homes.

However, the transformation of Teslim Balogun Stadium could give Lagos another opportunity to host the Super Eagles.

There is currently no official confirmation that Nigeria’s next fixtures will be moved to the Surulere venue, but the improved facilities could strengthen Lagos’ case to stage future international matches.

For Lagos football fans, a Super Eagles return to Teslim Balogun Stadium would represent a significant moment for a venue with a long history of hosting Nigeria’s national team.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Chief Editor at Soccernet.ng. He has interviewed Super Eagles stars like William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Ademola Lookman, and is known for breaking major transfer stories.

Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, and Milan News24. He holds a Master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X (formerly Twitter): @ayo_oguntimehin