Zadok Yohana has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s U23 national team, the Olympic Eagles, to overturn their 2-0 first-leg deficit against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the return leg of their Africa U23 Cup of Nations qualifying encounter.
The Nigerian youngster believes the Olympic Eagles have what it takes to stage a comeback when both sides meet again in Nigeria, insisting that the two-goal disadvantage does not spell the end of their qualification hopes.
Nigeria suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat to DR Congo in the first leg, leaving the Olympic Eagles with a difficult task ahead of the return fixture.
The Congolese side took control of the encounter through an own goal resulting from Josué Kimboma’s cross in the 15th minute before Filozofe Mabete doubled their advantage in the 35th minute.
The two goals gave DR Congo a comfortable advantage heading into the break, while Nigeria struggled to find a response against their determined opponents.
However, Yohana remains optimistic that Nigeria can produce a much-improved performance on home soil and overturn the aggregate scoreline.
With the return leg scheduled to take place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Tuesday, the Olympic Eagles will need a disciplined performance, attacking determination and clinical finishing to keep their qualification ambitions alive.
Nigeria must score at least twice without conceding to force the tie into a possible penalty shootout, while a victory by three clear goals would secure qualification outright.
The home advantage could prove crucial as the Olympic Eagles look to rally their supporters and deliver a strong response against the Congolese team.
The encounter represents a significant test of character for Nigeria’s U23 side, who must demonstrate resilience and tactical discipline if they are to overcome the deficit.
For Yohana and his teammates, the message remains clear: the tie is not over, and the Olympic Eagles still have an opportunity to fight their way back into contention.
All eyes will now be on Ikenne as Nigeria prepare for what promises to be a decisive battle against DR Congo.
