According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria on Friday, October 30, 2026, FC Basel defender Akpe Victory has recovered from injury and received clearance to represent Nigeria’s U-23 national team in their upcoming 2027 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations qualifying matches against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

His recovery comes as a major boost to Nigeria’s preparations, especially after concerns emerged about his availability for the important two-legged encounter. The defender had initially been considered doubtful after picking up an injury that forced him to withdraw from Nigeria’s 3-3 international friendly draw against Russia on October 6, 2026.

However, the latest report indicates that Akpe has returned to fitness and has been invited to join the U-23 squad ahead of the qualifiers. His availability gives the coaching staff another defensive option as Nigeria prepare for the difficult challenge against DR Congo.

The defender joined FC Basel during the summer and has reportedly settled well at the Swiss club. His performances and experience playing outside Nigeria are expected to provide additional strength to the national team’s defence.

Head coach Eric Chelle is believed to have an important role planned for Akpe, with expectations that the defender could feature prominently in both legs of the qualifying tie. Chelle, who also oversees the Super Eagles, has been supervising preparations for the U-23 team’s campaign.

The initial squad was made up largely of players selected from clubs within Nigeria. However, foreign-based players are expected to join the camp in the coming weeks as preparations move into a more important stage.

Nigeria will travel to face DR Congo in the first leg on November 9, 2026, before hosting the return encounter on November 17. Both matches will be important in determining which country progresses in the qualification race.

The 2027 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations is an important competition for Nigeria because it also forms part of the qualification pathway towards the 2028 Olympic football tournament in Los Angeles.

With Akpe now reportedly available, the coaching crew will have another option to strengthen the defence as the team prepares for the two decisive matches. Nigeria will be hoping to secure a positive result across both encounters and move closer to achieving its qualification ambitions.