Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has reported to the Super Eagles camp in Uyo ahead of the games against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, Soccernet.ng reports.
Okoye has come under heavy criticism from Nigerian fans due to his late arrival. He was among the 24 players invited for these opening two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but as of Tuesday, 23 players were already in camp, leaving him as the sole absentee.
On Wednesday morning, pictures surfaced of him at an event in Italy alongside American rapper Cardi B. It was later revealed that he was at Milan Fashion Week to model Udinese’s new third kit.
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During Thursday’s press conference, coach Eric Chelle confirmed that Okoye had obtained permission to report late, although it remains unclear how many days of grace he was granted.
By Wednesday night, the 27-year-old was already sharing pictures online showing that he was en route to Nigeria.
Although Okoye plays his club football in Italy, his flight departed from London. Around 10 a.m. on Friday, the Super Eagles media team confirmed that he had finally landed in Uyo and arrived at the team camp.
Welcome, Maduka ! pic.twitter.com/IYbOoDlMOk
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 25, 2026
Will Okoye Play For Super Eagles Against Madagascar?
Okoye’s arrival comes extremely late — in fact, on matchday itself. Having missed all three training sessions held between Tuesday and Thursday, it is highly unlikely that he will make the matchday squad against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
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Chelle has adequate cover between the sticks, with previous first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali returning to the squad following a hiatus since January.
In the event of an emergency, Charlton Athletic goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo is also capable of stepping up.
For Okoye, this lateness could cost him his place as Nigeria’s first choice. If that happens, regaining the starting berth could prove to be an uphill battle.
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Ultimately, Nigeria’s main objective is to avoid dropping points against Barea today. With the calibre of talent at Chelle’s disposal, taking all three points should not be too much to ask.
