Eric Chelle Keeps Goalkeeper Decision Under Wraps for Match

Eric Chelle, the head coach of the Super Eagles, has chosen not to reveal which goalkeeper will start in Nigeria's next 2026 World Cup qualifier against Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday. During a pre-match press conference, Chelle kept his selection decision confidential.

The available goalkeepers are Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, and Arthur Okonkwo. Nwabali started the opening match against Madagascar, marking his first appearance for the Eagles since the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, while Okonkwo was on the bench due to arriving late from his club, Udinese.

Although Nwabali seems the most likely to keep his position, there is ongoing discussion about giving Okoye a chance in the second game. Only Nwabali is confirmed for an upcoming friendly against Russia, indicating the competitive nature of the goalkeeping position.

The uncertainty surrounding the starting goalkeeper reflects a lack of a firmly established first choice since Nwabali's previous absence from the squad.