Nigeria’s bid to return to men’s Olympic football will face an early test next month when the Olympic Eagles take on the Democratic Republic of Congo in a two-legged U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie.

Head coach Éric Chelle has invited 31 home-based players to camp ahead of the encounter, with preparations scheduled to begin on Sunday, October 25, at AM2PM Hotel in Ijebu-Ode, according to The Eagle Times.

The first leg is scheduled for November 13 in Lubumbashi, with the return fixture holding four days later at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo.

Chelle’s selection comprises four goalkeepers, nine defenders, eight midfielders and 10 forwards.

Sporting Lagos lead the club representation with five players, while Ikorodu City, Rivers United, Nasarawa United and Warri Wolves have four each. Rangers International, Enyimba, Bendel Insurance, Barau FC, Wikki Tourists and Sporting Supreme are also represented.

Nigeria received a bye into the second qualifying round, while DR Congo advanced after eliminating Mauritania.

The winner will progress to the final qualifying round for the 2027 U-23 AFCON in Egypt, where Africa’s representatives for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic men’s football tournament will be determined.
Nigeria have not featured in Olympic men’s football since winning bronze at Rio 2016.

The country previously won gold at Atlanta 1996 and silver at Beijing 2008.

The lengthy absence raises the stakes for the current campaign, although Nigeria must first overcome DR Congo and secure qualification for the tournament in Egypt before the Olympic target comes into reach.

Chelle’s reliance on domestic-based players also puts the NPFL and other local clubs in the spotlight.

The camp will give the invited players a chance to establish themselves at international level, while the coaching staff must build a settled team from players drawn from different clubs.

With the opening leg away from home, Nigeria will need a positive result in Lubumbashi to strengthen their position before the return fixture in Ikenne.

The two matches will offer the first measure of whether the Olympic Eagles can keep their 2028 ambition on course.