Nigeria’s Olympic Eagles are preparing for a crucial test after head coach Éric Chelle named a 23-man squad for the Africa U-23 Cup of Nations qualifying battle against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Among the names attracting attention are Brighton forward Zadok Yohanna and Molde midfielder Daniel Daga, two young players expected to bring quality and experience from their European football careers.
Goalkeeper Michael Atata and junior international Abdulmuiz Adeleke have also been included as Nigeria looks to secure a place in next year’s tournament in Egypt. The competition will also determine Africa’s representatives at the men’s football event of the 2028 Olympic Games.
The first leg is scheduled for November 13 in Lubumbashi, while the return fixture will take place on November 17 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo.
However, Chelle will not lead the Olympic Eagles for the matches because his attention has shifted to the Super Eagles’ 2027 AFCON qualifying fixtures against Tanzania. Assistant coach Deniran Ortega will take charge of the U-23 team.
The challenge ahead is significant. Nigeria must overcome DR Congo across two legs to progress to the final qualifying round.
With promising young talents in the squad, fans will be watching closely to see whether the Olympic Eagles can take another step towards returning to the continental tournament.
