Èric Chelle Names 23-Man Squad for U23 AFCON Qualifiers

Head Coach Èric Chelle has announced a 23-man squad for Nigeria's U23 AFCON qualifying matches against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Key players include goalkeeper Michael Atata, who has previously been called up to the Super Eagles, and midfielder Daniel Daga.

The squad also features junior international Abdulmuiz Adeleke. Atata will compete for the starting goalkeeper position with Samuel James from SJK FC and Clinton Andy from Rivers United.

The Nigerian team aims to secure a spot in the finals scheduled in Egypt, which will determine Africa's representatives for the 2028 Olympics Men's Football Tournament. The squad includes defenders Victory Akpe, Vince Osuji, and Emmanuel Ochobi, midfielders Chibuzor Nwoko and Aderemi Adeoye, and forwards Peter Edokpolor, Zadok Yohanna, and Umar Abubakar.

The seven players based in Nigeria will depart on Tuesday for the first leg on November 13 at Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi, with the return leg on November 17 at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo.