Eric Chelle Selects 31 Players for U-23 AFCON Qualifier

Eric Chelle, the head coach of the Super Eagles, has invited 31 home-based players to join the Olympic Eagles squad in preparation for Nigeria's 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against the Democratic Republic of Congo. The players are expected to report to camp on October 25 at AM2PM Hotel in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

The squad includes four goalkeepers, nine defenders, eight midfielders, and ten forwards, with clubs such as Sporting Lagos and Ikorodu City having multiple representatives. Nigeria received a bye in the first round, while DR Congo advanced after defeating Mauritania.

The first leg of the qualifier will occur on November 13 at TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi, and the return leg is set for November 17 at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State. To qualify for the final round in Egypt in 2027, Nigeria must eliminate DR Congo, aiming for a return to the Olympic men's football tournament after missing the last two editions.