Olympic Eagles Depart for DR Congo as Chelle Makes Late Squad Changes Ahead of U-23 Qualifier

Posted : 12 November 2026

Nigeria's U-23 national team, the Olympic Eagles, have departed for the Democratic Republic of Congo ahead of their crucial 2027 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations qualifying encounter.

The home-based players and members of the technical crew travelled to Lubumbashi on Tuesday, November 10, while the foreign-based professionals joined the squad to complete preparations for the two-legged contest.

Nigeria will face DR Congo in the first leg at the Stade TP Mazembe on Friday, November 13. The return fixture is scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State.

The Olympic Eagles spent more than a week in camp in Ikenne as they prepared for the encounter. The two matches will determine which country progresses to the final qualifying round of the 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

Head coach Éric Chelle has made adjustments to his 23-man squad following withdrawals and injury concerns. One of the notable additions is Fulham midfielder Chibuzor Nwoko, who recently switched his international allegiance from England to Nigeria.

Nwoko's availability had initially been uncertain because of issues surrounding his Nigerian passport. However, the documentation challenge was resolved in London, allowing the midfielder to join the Olympic Eagles for the important qualifying assignment.

His inclusion provides another midfield option as Nigeria seek to secure a positive result away from home. The Fulham youngster could also make his competitive debut for Nigeria's U-23 team during the double-header.

Another late adjustment involves Nasarawa United forward Prince Bawa Oche, who has been called up to replace Sulaiman Sani.

Sani, who plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah, was forced to withdraw after sustaining an injury that prevented him from honouring his national team invitation. His absence represents a setback for Chelle's attacking options ahead of the encounter.

Chelle will, however, not accompany the Olympic Eagles to DR Congo because of his commitments with the senior national team. The Super Eagles coach is preparing Nigeria for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Tanzania.

Assistant coach Deniran Ortega and Ikorodu City coach Bright Ozebagbe are expected to oversee the U-23 team during the two matches.

Nigeria are seeking a return to the Olympic men's football tournament after missing the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 editions. The country last featured at the Rio 2016 Olympics, where the team secured a bronze medal.

The Olympic Eagles must first overcome DR Congo before advancing to the final qualifying round. The 2027 U-23 AFCON in Egypt will determine Africa's representatives at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

Olympic Eagles Depart for DR Congo as Chelle Makes Late Squad Changes Ahead of U-23 Qualifier

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