Nigeria’s U-23 side continued their build-up to the 2028 Olympic Games qualifiers with a 3-1 friendly win over Nigeria National League club Grassrunners FC on Friday at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
The victory marked the Olympic Eagles’ second warm-up match ahead of their two-legged qualifying series against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Muiz Adeleke gave Nigeria the lead in the 11th minute, Habila Simeon made it 2-0 in the 56th minute, and Jude Otowowor added a third goal nine minutes later to put the hosts in full control.
Grassrunners managed a late consolation through Akani Fadel in the 82nd minute, but the Olympic Eagles remained comfortable winners. In the lead-up to the fixture, head coach Éric Chelle released some home-based players so they could return to their clubs for Nigeria Premier Football League matches.
Several foreign-based professionals have been invited to strengthen the squad. Among those expected to join are Abdullahi Bewene of Banik Ostrava, Peter Edokpolor and Isaac James from Portuguese clubs Benfica and Alverca, as well as Abdullahi Umar of Hradec Kralove. Norwegian-based midfielder Daniel Daga is also among five additional players approached by the coaching staff.
The Olympic Eagles will depart for Lubumbashi on Monday, November 9, ahead of the first leg against DR Congo on Friday, November 13. The return match is scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
