Christian Akpan urges Nigerian fans to back Olympic Eagles against DR Congo

Racing Genk defender Christian Akpan has called on Nigerian supporters to support the Olympic Eagles as they begin their 2027 U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie against DR Congo.

Nigeria face DR Congo in the first leg at Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi on Friday, November 13, with Akpan promising that the team will give everything to secure a positive result away from home.

The full-back, speaking at a pre-match press conference on Thursday, said the players understood the responsibility of representing Nigeria and needed the backing of supporters as they pursue qualification for the tournament.

“We need the Nigerian fans to support us, and we will also try to give everything we can on the pitch, giving 100%,” Akpan said.

“That’s all we can do to make Nigerians proud by qualifying for the 2027 U-23 Afcon.”

The Olympic Eagles will return to action in the second leg on November 17 at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

Nigeria will, however, be without head coach Eric Chelle on the touchline for the first leg. The Malian is also responsible for the Super Eagles, who face Tanzania in a 2027 Afcon qualifier on Friday.

Akpan is part of the squad preparing for the crucial meeting in Lubumbashi, where Nigeria will aim to establish an advantage before the return fixture.