Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has joined Nigeria’s camp in Uyo ahead of the team’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Madagascar.
Okoye was the last member of the squad to report to camp after the other players had already begun preparations for Friday’s important qualifier.
Okoye Arrives in Uyo
The Super Eagles camp opened earlier in the week, with most of the invited players arriving and taking part in training under head coach Éric Chelle.
Okoye’s absence attracted attention after he had not joined the squad while preparations for the Madagascar match were already underway.
The Udinese goalkeeper eventually reported to camp as Nigeria continued preparations for the two AFCON qualifying fixtures scheduled during the September international window.
Why His Late Arrival Attracted Attention
Okoye’s delayed arrival became a talking point after footage emerged on social media showing him in Milan during Fashion Week.
The goalkeeper was seen alongside American rapper Cardi B and also modelled Udinese’s third kit during the event.
The appearance generated reactions from Nigerian football fans and commentators because the Super Eagles were already preparing for their first competitive fixture of the international window.
There was also criticism over the lack of an immediate public explanation regarding his expected arrival time.
Okoye’s Place in the Super Eagles
Okoye remains one of the goalkeepers competing for a place in Nigeria’s squad.
The 27-year-old has previously served as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper and has made 21 appearances for the national team since his international debut in 2019.
He returned to the Super Eagles setup in 2024 after a period away from the team and has since been involved in the competition for the goalkeeper position.
Stanley Nwabali is also back in the squad for the current international window, while Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo provides another option for Chelle.
Nigeria Prepare for Madagascar
Nigeria will face Madagascar on Friday, September 25, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The match will be the Super Eagles’ opening game in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
Nigeria will then travel to Guinea-Bissau for another qualifier on September 29.
With the squad now together, attention will turn to Chelle’s team selection and the goalkeeper he chooses for the opening match.
Okoye’s arrival gives the coach another experienced option as Nigeria begins its attempt to secure qualification for the next Africa Cup of Nations.