Super Eagles' Maduka Okoye Criticized for Missing Camp

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was spotted with American rapper Cardi B in Milan, Italy, which has drawn significant criticism from Nigerian fans and journalists on social media. This incident occurred during Okoye's absence from the Super Eagles camp as they prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Okoye is the only player out of the 24 invited by coach Eric Chelle who has not joined the squad. Chelle had relied on Okoye as Nigeria's first choice goalkeeper while Stanley Nwabali was sidelined.

Okoye participated in international friendly matches against Poland and Portugal in June and was expected to continue as the starting goalkeeper due to his consistent performances for Udinese. While the majority of the squad reported to camp by Tuesday evening and took part in the opening training session in Ikot-Ekpene, Okoye remained absent.