Nigeria has taken a significant step towards revitalising its U-23 national team programme, with Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle now entrusted with overseeing the Dream Team as part of a broader football development strategy.

The decision was reached during a high level meeting attended by National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman Shehu Dikko, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, and Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle.

The move is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s football development structure and improving the country's chances in forthcoming U-23 competitions, including qualification campaigns for major international tournaments.

Nigeria’s U-23 side, popularly known as the Dream Team, remains one of Africa’s most successful football teams at the Olympic Games. 

The team holds the unique distinction of being the first African nation to win the complete set of Olympic medals in men’s football gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The pinnacle of the Dream Team’s achievements came under Dutch coach Jo Bonfrere at the 1996 Atlanta Games.

 Nigeria became the first African country to win Olympic football gold after an unforgettable run that included a dramatic 4-3 semi final victory over Brazil, sealed by Nwankwo Kanu’s famous golden goal. The team then defeated Argentina 3-2 in a thrilling final to secure a historic triumph.

Although results in subsequent U-23 Africa Cup of Nations and Olympic qualification campaigns have been inconsistent, Nigeria has remained a respected force in continental youth football.

With Chelle now overseeing the Dream Team, hopes are high that the former African champions can reconnect with their illustrious Olympic heritage and once again challenge for honours on both the continental and global stage.

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