Super Eagles Return Fuels Okoye’s Push For Number One Shirt

Super Eagles Return Fuels Okoye’s Push For Number One Shirt

By Niyi Busari 

Maduka Okoye has spoken of his pride at returning to Nigeria’s national team, expressing a strong determination to establish himself as a consistent presence in the Super Eagles squad following his recent recall, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Udinese goalkeeper described representing Nigeria as both a professional milestone and a deeply personal honour, adding that the call-up has renewed his motivation to perform at the highest level.

“I was very pleased to be called up to the national team,” Okoye said via Udinese’s official website on Wednesday. “It’s important to me as a player and as a person. I want to return many more times.”

Okoye’s return comes after he was omitted from Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. He featured in the Super Eagles’ 2-1 friendly win over Iran in Antalya during the March international window but missed the subsequent 2-2 draw against Jordan due to a thigh injury sustained in training.

Despite that setback, the 26-year-old has responded strongly at club level. He was named in the Serie A Team of the Week following an impressive display in Udinese’s 3-0 victory over AC Milan, where he kept a clean sheet.

Although six goalkeepers recorded shutouts during the round, Okoye’s composed and assured performance distinguished him among his peers.

His inclusion in the weekly selection alongside teammates Atta and Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, as well as other standout performers across the league, underscores his growing influence this season.

The recognition also highlights his consistency, with Okoye registering eight clean sheets in 24 Serie A appearances. Notably, he has recorded three consecutive shutouts for the first time since joining Udinese in 2023.

Since making his Super Eagles debut against Brazil in 2019, Okoye has earned 19 caps and is now aiming to cement his position as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper amid increasing competition.

With Arthur Okonkwo impressing at Wrexham and Stanley Nwabali expected to return to regular club action, the contest for the number one shirt remains highly competitive.Headline options: