Olympic Eagles Step Up Preparations for DR Congo Showdown

Nigeria's Olympic Eagles have intensified preparations for their crucial 2027 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations qualifying encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo, with head coach Éric Chelle working to assemble a competitive squad.

The team, which is preparing for the two-legged second-round fixture, opened camp in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, with 28 players initially involved in training.

According to updates from the team's camp, 23 players and 11 officials were in attendance as preparations continued, with the technical crew concentrating on fitness, ball work, passing drills and tactical development.

The Olympic Eagles played their first warm-up match against Nigeria Premier Football League side Remo Stars at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, settling for a goalless draw.

However, Chelle temporarily released seven players to their respective clubs following requests from teams seeking their services for NPFL matches.

The players released include three from Nasarawa United, while Rivers United, Bendel Insurance, Sporting Lagos and Ikorodu City had one representative each.

Nigeria will travel to Lubumbashi for the first leg against DR Congo at the TP Mazembe Stadium on November 13, before hosting the return fixture at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, on November 17.

The two-legged contest is a major test for Chelle and his assistants as Nigeria pursue qualification for the 2027 U-23 AFCON in Egypt.

The competition will also determine Africa's representatives at the men's football tournament of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Nigeria, which last featured in Olympic men's football at Rio 2016, will be hoping to return to the global stage.