Nigeria’s U-23 team, the Olympic Eagles, have arrived in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo, ahead of Friday’s 2027 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations qualifying match.

With all 23 invited players now in camp, preparations are underway for the first leg of their two-legged qualifying tie against DR Congo, scheduled for November 13 at the Stade TP Mazembe.

Head coach Eric Chelle has named a 23-man squad for the match, featuring eight players from the Nigerian domestic league and 15 based abroad.

In goal are Samuel James, Clinton Andy and Michael Atata, while Christian Akpan, Victory Akpe, Vince Osuji, Emmanuel Godwin, Odinaka Alfred, Emmanuel Ochobi and Aliu Sugau will provide defensive options.

The midfield includes John Otomewo, Daniel Daga, Wilfred George, Chibuzor Nwoko, Aderemi Adeoye, Sadiq Saleh and Victor Samuel. The forwards are Peter Edokpolor, Prince Bawa Oche, Umar Abubakar, Zadok Yohanna, Abdullahi Umar and Abdulmuiz Adeleke.

Meanwhile, Nasarawa United forward Prince Bawa Oche has earned a call-up as a replacement for injured Sulaiman Sani, who plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah.

Following Friday’s match, the Olympic Eagles will host the return leg on Tuesday, November 17, at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State.

The qualifying tie is part of Nigeria’s campaign to reach the 2027 U-23 AFCON in Egypt, where Africa’s representatives at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles will be determined.

The Olympic Eagles will be hoping to secure a positive result in Lubumbashi before hosting the Congolese side in the return fixture. (The Nation)