Nigeria’s U-23 men’s national team, the Olympic Eagles, suffered a 2-0 defeat to DR Congo in the first leg of their CAF U-23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in Lubumbashi on Friday, leaving them with a difficult task in the return fixture.
The Olympic Eagles created early scoring opportunities but failed to convert their chances. Their inability to capitalise proved costly as the hosts gradually took control of the encounter.
DR Congo opened the scoring in the 15th minute before doubling their advantage in the 36th minute, with both goals coming amid controversial circumstances.
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The opening 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 decision and awarded the goal to DR Congo, with Filozofe Mambete credited as the scorer.
The Olympic Eagles made further changes in an attempt to revive their fortunes, with Victor Samuel replacing John Otomewo, Chibuzor Nwoko coming on for Wilfred George, and Emmanuel Ochobi replacing Emmanuel Godwin.
Godwin received a yellow card in the 53rd minute, while midfielder Daniel Daga was booked in the 70th minute.
Despite their efforts to get back into the contest, Nigeria struggled to find a breakthrough in the second half as DR Congo maintained their defensive organisation to protect their two-goal advantage until the final whistle.
The defeat leaves the Olympic Eagles with a major challenge ahead of Tuesday’s return leg at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo.
Nigeria must score at least three goals without conceding to advance to the third round of the qualifiers and keep its hopes of qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games.
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