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Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has finally arrived in camp in Uyo, ending concerns over his availability for Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener against Madagascar.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed Okoye’s arrival yesterday through a post on the Super Eagles’ official X account, accompanied by a photograph of the Udinese goalkeeper.
“Welcome, Maduka,” the team posted.
Okoye was the last member of Nigeria’s 24-man squad to report to camp, having missed the team’s first two training sessions.
His delayed arrival attracted criticism after he was spotted at Milan Fashion Week, where he represented Udinese and modelled the Italian club’s third kit. He was also pictured with American rapper Cardi B at the event.
However, Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle explained that Udinese had asked the goalkeeper to remain in Italy to participate in some club activities before travelling to join the national team.
With Okoye now in camp, Chelle has all three goalkeeping options available for the qualifier, with the Udinese man joining first-choice Stanley Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo.
Nigeria face Madagascar at 5pm today at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, in their opening Group L fixture of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
