Eric Chelle Addresses Maduka Okoye's Late Camp Arrival

Eric Chelle, head coach of the Super Eagles, commented on goalkeeper Maduka Okoye's late arrival at the national team's training camp ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. Okoye, who previously played for Watford, was included in the goalkeeping squad alongside Arthur Okonkwo.

His late reporting, which began on Tuesday, raised concerns, especially after a viral video showed him at a nightclub in Milan with American rapper Cardi B. Chelle clarified that Okoye's club requested him to manage some club-related duties before joining the national team.

Okoye's absence from training sessions on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday casts doubt on his participation against Madagascar. Additionally, Chelle faces a significant injury list, with players like Victor Osimhen, Zadok Yohanna, Femi Azeez, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Alhassan Yusuf unavailable for the match.

Despite these challenges, Chelle expressed confidence in the squad's depth and mentality.