Nigeria U23 Team Faces Venue Change Due to Ebola Concerns

An active Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is raising concerns regarding the hosting of Nigeria's U23 team for the first leg of their second-round qualifier for the 2028 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations. The match is scheduled for November 13 at the TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi, with the return fixture on November 17 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

Due to travel and quarantine restrictions linked to the Ebola outbreak, there is a possibility that the away leg may be relocated to a neutral ground. The DRC's Ministry of Health has reported over 9,800 cases and more than 4,700 deaths since the outbreak began in May, making it the deadliest in the country's history.

The World Health Organisation has called for stronger cross-border monitoring while advising against blanket travel restrictions. Despite the uncertainty, Nigeria's head coach Chelle has invited 31 home-based players to the Olympic Eagles camp, gathering on October 25 to prepare for the crucial ties.