Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has explained why goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is yet to join the team’s camp ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against Madagascar.
Okoye is the only player from the 24-man squad invited by Chelle for the upcoming matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau who has yet to report for international duty.
Chelle Clarifies Maduka Okoye’s Absence
The Udinese goalkeeper’s absence had sparked speculation ahead of Friday’s encounter, but Chelle has confirmed that Okoye was given permission to remain with his club.
According to the Super Eagles coach, Udinese requested that the goalkeeper be allowed to stay behind to attend to club-related matters, and he approved the request.
“His club asked me to allow him to take care of some club-related activities, and I agreed. Now, I have to manage the situation,” Chelle told journalists at a press conference in Uyo on Thursday.
Nwabali or Okonkwo to Start Against Madagascar?
With Okoye unavailable for the Madagascar fixture, Chelle is expected to choose between Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and Charlton Athletic’s Arthur Okonkwo to start in goal for the Super Eagles.
Nigeria will face Corentin Martins’ Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Kick-off is scheduled for 5pm Nigeria time.
The fixture is part of Nigeria’s campaign in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with the Super Eagles aiming to secure a positive result on home soil.