The Democratic Republic of Congo have set up a two-legged clash with Nigeria in the qualifiers for the 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations after eliminating Mauritania from the race.
DR Congo overturned a first-leg deficit with a 2-0 victory over Mauritania on Tuesday to progress 2-1 on aggregate.
The result means the DR Congo will now face Nigeria’s U-23 Eagles in the next round, with the winner moving closer to securing a place at the 2027 U-23 AFCON in Egypt.
The first leg of the tie is scheduled for November 9, with DR Congo expected to host the opening encounter.
Nigeria will host the return leg on November 17, although the venues and kick-off times have yet to be officially confirmed.
The encounter will be crucial for both sides, as the 2027 U-23 AFCON is expected to serve as Africa’s main qualifying tournament for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Nigeria will be hoping to advance in their bid to return to the Olympic football tournament.
The U-23 Eagles have a strong record in the competition, winning silver at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games.
DR Congo, meanwhile, will enter the tie with confidence after recovering from their first-leg defeat to Mauritania.
Nigeria will need strong performances in both legs to overcome the Congolese and keep their Olympic qualification hopes alive.
