Maduka Okoye’s Form Could Keep Nwabali Out of Super Eagles Team - Ex-Eagles Star

Maduka Okoye’s Form Could Keep Nwabali Out of Super Eagles Team - Ex-Eagles Star 

By Niyi Busari 

Former Nigerian international Friday Ekpo has said Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will face a difficult task reclaiming the number one position in the national team due to Maduka Okoye’s impressive form in Italy, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Ekpo expressed concern over Nwabali’s prolonged absence from club football following his departure from South African side Chippa United in February.

The 29-year-old goalkeeper established himself as one of Chippa United’s key players after joining the club in 2020, and his performances earned him recognition with the Super Eagles. However, his lack of competitive football in recent months has raised questions about his readiness for international duty.

Speaking to Completesports.com, Ekpo said Okoye’s consistent displays for Udinese in Serie A have strengthened the competition for the Super Eagles’ starting goalkeeper role.

“There is no doubt that Nwabali is a talented goalkeeper, but his absence from the Super Eagles as a result of his inactivity with club football really makes me worried,” Ekpo said.

“To be fair, it will be difficult for him to walk straight back into the team and regain the number one spot considering the performances of Maduka Okoye at Udinese.

“Okoye has gradually taken his game to another level, and his confidence in goal shows that Nwabali has a lot of work to do if he wants to reclaim his place.”

Okoye has enjoyed an impressive campaign with Udinese, producing a series of strong performances that have reignited discussions about Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper ahead of upcoming international fixtures.

The growing competition between both goalkeepers is expected to give Super Eagles coaches a difficult selection decision as Nigeria prepares for future qualifiers and major tournaments.