Maduka Okoye Joins Super Eagles Ahead of AFCON Qualifier

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye arrived in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, to join Nigeria's 24-man squad for the opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixture against Madagascar, scheduled for Friday. Okoye, who plays for Udinese, was the last of the invited players to report to camp, having been absent while his teammates began preparations earlier in the week.

His arrival follows reports confirming he landed in Nigeria and traveled to the team's base in Uyo. Head coach Éric Chelle had included Okoye in the squad alongside goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo.

Chelle explained that Okoye's delayed arrival was due to family and personal matters for which he had received permission. With Okoye now in camp, Chelle has all three goalkeepers available for selection, intensifying competition for the starting position against Madagascar.

The match will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.