2027 U-23 AFCONQ: DR Congo begin preparations for Olympic Eagles clash

The Democratic Republic of Congo have commenced preparations for their 2027 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations second round qualifying encounter against Nigeria’s Olympic Eagles.

The invited players took part in gym sessions on Sunday as they assembled in camp ahead of the crucial two-legged tie.

The team is scheduled to hold its first training session on Monday, with preparations focused on securing a positive result against Nigeria.

Head coach Guy Bukasa named a 26-man squad for the qualifiers last week. However, three players — Faveurdi Bongeli, Messy Manitu and Yohan Mboko — have been ruled out of the encounter due to injuries.

DR Congo will host the first leg at the TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi on Friday before travelling to Nigeria for the return fixture.

The second leg will take place at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne on Tuesday, November 17, as the teams battle for a place in the next stage of the qualifying campaign.