Nigeria’s U-23 national team, the Olympic Eagles, have completed their 31-man squad assembly ahead of their upcoming qualifying encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the race for a place at the 2028 Olympic Games, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The team began preparations on Tuesday morning at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, with 28 players taking part in the opening training session.
The remaining three players arrived later in the day after featuring for Rangers International of Enugu in their 2026/27 CAF Champions League fixture against MC Alger.
The trio consists of Chimobi Igwilo, Kenneth Igboke and Chibueze Oputa, whose arrival has now brought the squad to its full complement as the technical crew steps up preparations for the important qualifying tie.
The 31-man selection comprises four goalkeepers, nine defenders, eight midfielders and 10 forwards, giving the coaching staff several options as they work on the team's tactical approach.
The goalkeepers in camp are Chinemerem Olughu of Nasarawa United, Clinton Andy of Rivers United, Ebenezer Harcourt of Sporting Lagos and Michael Atata of Ikorodu City.
The defensive group includes Gift Subi of Warri Wolves, Hillary Zion of Sporting Lagos, Emmanuel Utake of Rivers United, Marvelous Freedom of Ikorodu City, Odinaka Alfred of Nasarawa United, Emmanuel Ochobi of Rivers United and Aliu Sugau of Barau FC.
The midfield contingent features Freeman Wuchirwe of Bendel Insurance, Victor Samuel of Sporting Lagos, Umar Mohammed of Nasarawa United, Lucky Oraro of Warri Wolves, Aderemi Adeoye of Ikorodu City, Sani Shuaibu of Warri Wolves, Muhammad Salihu of Sporting Lagos and Jude Eventus of Warri Wolves.
Among the forwards named are Junior Ikechukwu of Ikorodu City, Timothy Zechariah of Rivers United, Williams Wonah of Enyimba, Ayoola Olaniyan of Sporting Lagos, Chijioke Samuel of Enyimba, Jofrank Joshua of Nasarawa United, Alex Oweifaleya of Bendel Insurance, Abdulmuiz Adeleke of Sporting Supreme and Habila Simon of Wikki Tourists.
With the entire squad now available, the coaching crew will focus on improving coordination, sharpening tactical execution and building the understanding needed ahead of the clash with DR Congo.
The qualifying campaign is an important part of Nigeria's bid to return to the men's football tournament at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, making a positive start crucial for the Olympic Eagles.