According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Nigeria U-23 head coach Eric Chelle has invited two additional players based in the Czech Republic as the Olympic Eagles intensify preparations for their upcoming 2027 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations qualifying matches against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The newly invited players, Emmanuel Godwin and Victor Samuel, currently feature for Czech top-flight side Pardubice. Chelle has reportedly contacted both footballers to establish their availability for the important two-legged qualifying contest, with both players expressing their willingness to represent Nigeria.

Their inclusion is expected to strengthen the Olympic Eagles as the coaching team continues to explore foreign-based options ahead of the decisive fixtures. Godwin is a versatile footballer who can operate as a right-back, left-back or winger. His major qualities include pace, confidence in possession and the ability to contribute in different attacking and defensive positions.

Samuel, meanwhile, is primarily an attacking player who can also operate effectively on either wing. According to the report, both Nigerian players have been regular members of Pardubice's squad and have featured in every match played by the club this season.

Their invitations will increase the number of foreign-based footballers expected to join the national team setup. The Olympic Eagles have already begun preparations in Nigeria, but Chelle is reportedly considering major adjustments to his initial selection to accommodate the newly invited players.

As many as 18 home-based footballers could reportedly lose their places as the Franco-Malian coach reshapes his squad for the encounter against DR Congo. Chelle had initially invited 31 locally based players to the training camp as part of his preparations for the qualifiers.

The first leg of the contest will take place at the TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi on November 13, 2026. Nigeria will then welcome DR Congo for the return fixture at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on November 17.

The Olympic Eagles understand the importance of securing a positive result across both matches to progress to the final qualifying round of the 2027 U-23 AFCON, which will be hosted by Egypt.

The tournament will also serve as Africa's qualification competition for the men's football event at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Consequently, Nigeria will be eager to assemble a competitive squad capable of overcoming DR Congo and keeping their Olympic qualification ambitions alive.