Nigeria’s Olympic Eagles step up U-23 AFCON qualifiers preparations ahead of crucial DR Congo double-header

Nigeria’s Olympic Eagles have stepped up preparations for their 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with head coach Éric Chelle overseeing the team’s build-up to a decisive two-legged encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

A 23-man playing squad and 11 officials are currently in camp in Ogun State as Nigeria look to secure a place in the final qualifying round of the competition.

The team opened camp at AM2PM Hotel in Ijebu-Ode before moving their training activities to the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, where the technical team has been working to improve the players’ fitness, tactical understanding and overall cohesion.

The opening training session took place on Tuesday, October 27, with 28 players initially involved as Chelle began assessing his options ahead of the qualifiers.

Five players from Sporting Lagos were among the first to report to camp, while four additional players and an assistant coach subsequently joined the squad. Rangers International players also arrived later after completing their continental commitments.

The preparations have included fitness exercises, ball work, passing drills, small-sided games and tactical sessions as the coaching staff seeks to assemble a competitive team capable of overcoming DR Congo.

Olympic Eagles held by Remo Stars in first friendly

As part of their preparations, Nigeria played their first friendly against NPFL side Remo Stars at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Saturday.

However, the Olympic Eagles were unable to translate their preparations into a victory, settling for a goalless draw against the domestic league outfit.

The encounter provided Chelle and his technical team with an opportunity to assess the players in a competitive setting and identify areas requiring improvement before the qualifying contest.

Following the friendly, seven players were released to their respective clubs to fulfil their Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) commitments.

Their departure temporarily reduced the number of players available to the coaching staff, although the remaining squad will continue training in Ijebu-Ode and Ikenne.

Chelle is expected to use the remaining sessions to sharpen the team’s tactical approach and build the understanding required for the demanding away and home fixtures against the Congolese side.

DR Congo stand between Nigeria and final qualifying round

Nigeria’s immediate assignment is a difficult two-legged encounter against DR Congo, with the first leg scheduled for Friday, November 13, at the TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi.

The Olympic Eagles will then return home to host the Congolese side at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Tuesday, November 17, with a place in the final qualifying round at stake.

The aggregate winner will advance to the final stage of qualification for the 2027 U-23 AFCON in Egypt.

The tournament will also serve as Africa’s qualification pathway to the men’s football competition at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Nigeria will be eager to navigate the Congolese challenge and keep their Olympic ambitions alive as they seek another appearance at the global sporting event.

With preparations gathering momentum in Ogun State, Chelle’s immediate task will be to turn the team’s training work into performances capable of securing progression to the final qualifying round.