Eric Chelle Calls 31 Players for U-23 AFCON Qualifiers

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has called up 31 home-based players to the Olympic Eagles camp in preparation for their two-legged second-round qualifying tie against the Democratic Republic of Congo for the 2028 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations. The players, all from domestic clubs, will begin training on Sunday, October 25, at AM2PM Hotel in Ijebu-Ode.

Notably, players from Sporting Lagos and Ikorodu City are prominently featured in the selection. Nigeria, which received a bye in the first round, faces DR Congo, who advanced by defeating Mauritania.

The first leg will take place on November 13 at TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi, while the return match is scheduled for November 17 at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo. Chelle's squad includes four goalkeepers, nine defenders, eight midfielders, and ten forwards, showcasing a diverse pool of domestic talent.

Nigeria aims to return to the Olympic men's football tournament after missing the last two editions, with a rich history including gold in 1996, silver in 2008, and bronze in 2016.