Arthur Okonkwo Joins Super Eagles for AFCON Qualifiers

Charlton Athletic goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has received a call-up to Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles, for their opening matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. The announcement was made on September 7, with Okonkwo, 24, set to join coach Eric Chelle’s squad for the fixtures scheduled for September 25 and September 29.

Okonkwo is looking to make his competitive debut for Nigeria after previously earning two senior caps during the Unity Cup in May, where he kept clean sheets in both matches. He started in the 2-0 semi-final victory over Zimbabwe and played in the 3-0 final win against Jamaica.

Okonkwo faces competition for the starting goalkeeper position from Stanley Nwabali and Udinese's Maduka Okoye. Since joining Charlton on a season-long loan from Wrexham this summer, Okonkwo has made four appearances.

Nigeria's group also includes Tanzania, who have already qualified as co-hosts for the tournament.