LA 2028: Olympic Eagles Face Uphill Task After 2-0 Defeat To Dr Congo

Nigeria’s Olympic Eagles face an uphill battle to keep their qualification hopes alive after suffering a 2-0 defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first leg of their CAF U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie in Lubumbashi on Friday.

The defeat leaves the Nigerian side needing at least three unanswered goals in Tuesday’s return leg in Ikenne to overturn the deficit and advance to the third round of the qualifiers.

The Olympic Eagles started brightly, creating early scoring opportunities but failing to convert their chances as DR Congo gradually took control of the encounter.

The hosts opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Filozofe Mambete, although the goal sparked controversy after assistant referee Brianson Musisi reportedly indicated that the ball had not crossed the goal line.

However, centre referee Duula Joshua overruled the assistant referee’s decision and awarded the goal to the Congolese side.

Mambete doubled DR Congo’s advantage in the 36th minute with another contentious goal following a goalmouth scramble involving physical challenges and a disputed tackle.

Nigeria’s difficulties were compounded by an injury to Zadok Yohanna, who was forced off in the 25th minute and replaced by Umar Abdullahi.

The Olympic Eagles attempted to fight their way back into the contest, with the technical crew making further changes to inject fresh energy into the team.

Victor Samuel replaced John Otomewo, Chibuzor Nwoko came on for Wilfred George, while Emmanuel Ochobi took the place of Emmanuel Godwin.

Godwin was booked in the 53rd minute before midfielder Daniel Daga also received a yellow card in the 70th minute.

Despite their efforts, the Nigerian youngsters failed to find a way past the well-organised Congolese defence, which held firm until the final whistle to secure a two-goal advantage.

The result puts considerable pressure on the Olympic Eagles ahead of Tuesday’s return fixture at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo.

Nigeria must score at least three goals without conceding to overturn the deficit and secure qualification for the next round.

The team will need a significantly improved attacking performance at home if they are to revive their hopes of progressing in the race for a place at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.