From Premium Times Nigeria · Gbemidepo Popoola · · 2m
Eric Chelle hands over Nigeria U-23 Eagles to assistants
Eric Chelle delegates Nigeria U-23 Eagles to assistants ahead of DR Congo Olympic qualifier.
In brief
Eric Chelle delegates Nigeria U-23 Eagles to assistants ahead of DR Congo Olympic qualifier. Eric Chelle hands over Nigeria U-23 Eagles to assistants Deniran Ortega and Bright Ozebagbe for DR Congo Olympic qualifier. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
Eric Chelle hands over Nigeria U-23 Eagles
Eric Chelle has handed over the Nigeria U-23 national team, the Olympic Eagles, to his assistants Deniran Ortega and Bright Ozebagbe.
Preparation for DR Congo qualifier
The Olympic Eagles prepare for their crucial 2027 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations qualifying tie against DR Congo.
Dual coaching responsibilities
Chelle manages dual roles as head coach of both Super Eagles and Olympic Eagles.
Training camp details
The Olympic Eagles spent two weeks in a closed training camp at Remo Stars facility in Ikenne.
Handover timeline
Chelle handed over to assistants during final week of training program with Super Eagles coach stepping in periodically.
Team composition
From seven defenders, three are home-based while four are foreign-based; two NPFL goalkeepers and one foreign-based.
Defensive strategy
Chelle wants home-based NPFL players for defense due to African football strength needs.
Formation change
Olympic Eagles likely to adopt 4-3-3 system under Ortega and Ozebagbe instead of Chelle's diamond formation.
Squad departure plan
Home-based contingent departs Nigeria today while foreign players link up in Lubumbashi for Friday's match.
Tournament significance
The qualifier determines Nigeria's chances for 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Immediate challenge
Ortega and Ozebagbe must ensure Nigeria remains on course for U-23 AFCON appearance.
Media confirmation
Team's Media Officer Niyi Busari confirmed handover during News Central TV interview.
Player return plan
Chelle informed players during October friendly that most would return to Olympic Eagles for DR Congo qualifiers.
Next steps
Olympic Eagles face two-legged battle with DR Congo to qualify for 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations.
The big picture
Eric Chelle hands over Nigeria U-23 Eagles to assistants Deniran Ortega and Bright Ozebagbe for DR Congo Olympic qualifier.
