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Nigeria have opened a new chapter in their preparations for the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with 31 players from domestic clubs receiving invitations ahead of a two-legged battle against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The selection provides an opportunity for home-based footballers to stake their claims for places in the Olympic Eagles squad as the country pursues qualification for the 2027 continental tournament.
The invited players are expected to report to the team’s camp at AM2PM Hotel in Ijebu-Ode on Sunday, October 25, for the start of preparations.
The coaching crew will use the training period to assess the players’ fitness, tactical understanding and readiness for the demanding encounter. The squad draws talent from several Nigerian Professional Football League clubs, including Sporting Lagos, Ikorodu City, Rivers United, Enyimba and Rangers International.
Nigeria will travel to Lubumbashi for the opening leg at the TP Mazembe Stadium on November 13 before returning home for the decisive second leg at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on November 17.
The tie represents a significant hurdle for the Nigerian side, as victory over the Congolese team would take the country one step closer to securing a place at the U-23 AFCON in Egypt next year.
The continental competition will also serve as a qualification pathway for the men’s football event at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, increasing the importance of the encounter for both teams.
Nigeria have a proud history in Olympic men’s football, having won gold in 1996, silver in 2008 and bronze in 2016. However, the team failed to qualify for the last two Olympic Games and will be eager to return to the global stage.
With the first match scheduled for November 13, the invited players have a limited period to convince the coaching staff that they possess the quality needed to overcome DR Congo and keep Nigeria’s Olympic ambitions alive.
