Nigeria U-23 head coach Eric Chelle has permitted seven players in the Olympic Eagles camp to return to their respective clubs ahead of this weekend’s Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matches.

Nasarawa United are the biggest beneficiaries of the decision, having secured the temporary release of three players following requests submitted by some clubs to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Olympic Eagles media officer, Niyi Busari, confirmed the development in a communication with sports journalists.

The seven players granted permission to rejoin their clubs are Utake Emmanuel of Rivers United, Joshua Jofrank, Olughu Onu Chinemerem and Muhammad Muhammad Umar of Nasarawa United, Owelayafa Alex of Bendel Insurance, Samuel Victor Umoh of Sporting Lagos and Ikechukwu Junior of Ikorodu City.

Nasarawa United have the highest representation among the released players, with three members of the squad. Rivers United, Bendel Insurance, Sporting Lagos and Ikorodu City each have one representative.

The release could prove significant for Nasarawa United, who currently occupy third position on the NPFL table with 17 points from 10 matches. They are level on points with Rivers United and Rangers International.

The Solid Miners have an opportunity to move to the top of the standings for the first time this season if they overcome Kano Pillars in Sunday’s encounter.

Meanwhile, Chelle’s decision comes as the Olympic Eagles intensify preparations for their 2026 Olympic qualifying encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Nigeria will travel for the first leg on November 13, while the return fixture is scheduled for November 17 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State.

The national team have so far played one preparatory match, recording a goalless draw against Nigeria National League side Remo Stars.

Chelle fielded a squad consisting entirely of home-based players in the friendly, with Ikorodu City midfielder Aderemi Adeoye, who recently featured in the international friendly against Russia, captaining the side.

Remo Stars put up a disciplined performance and limited the national team to few clear opportunities in the opening half. Abdulmuiz Adeleke came closest to scoring for the Olympic Eagles but was denied on two occasions by goalkeeper Emmanuel Olisa.

At the other end, Taiwo Cole tested national team goalkeeper Michael Atata late in the encounter, but neither side managed to find the breakthrough.

Chelle and his players are expected to continue their preparations in Ijebu Ode and Ikenne ahead of the crucial double-header. The coach is also expected to announce the inclusion of foreign-based players before Nigeria’s trip for the first leg.

The Olympic Eagles will be hoping to build sufficient momentum ahead of the two matches as they pursue qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games.