Maduka Okoye has made clear that representing Nigeria is a priority, stating his intention to cement a long-term place in the Super Eagles squad after being recalled to the national team earlier this year.
The 24-year-old Udinese shot-stopper was included in the squad during the March international break, returning to the fold after missing Nigeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign. His comeback appearance came in a 2-1 friendly victory over Iran in Antalya, Turkey — a result that marked a significant moment in his international career.
“I was so pleased to be called up to the national team,” Okoye said in an interview on Udinese Tonight. “It’s important to me as a player and as a person. I want to return many more times.”
Okoye first represented Nigeria in a 2019 friendly against Brazil and has since earned 16 caps for his country. His absence from the AFCON squad had raised questions about his standing within the national setup, but his recent form at club level has strengthened his case for a regular berth.
Since returning to Udinese following the international break, the goalkeeper has been among the most consistent performers in Serie A. A particularly notable display came in a 3-0 win over AC Milan, during which he produced several crucial saves. That performance contributed to a personal landmark — three consecutive clean sheets for the first time since joining the Italian club in 2023.
With Stanley Nwabali currently occupying the number one position for the Super Eagles, Okoye’s resurgent form sets the stage for what could become a competitive battle for the starting berth ahead of future fixtures. Nigeria’s upcoming international commitments, including a reported friendly against Portugal, will provide further opportunities for both goalkeepers to make their case to head coach Eric Chelle.
Okoye’s performances have not gone unnoticed in Italy, where he has earned recognition for his displays in one of Europe’s most demanding top-flight leagues. Keeping clean sheets against high-profile opposition in Serie A adds considerable weight to his push for consistent Super Eagles selection.
At 24, Okoye has the profile of a goalkeeper entering his peak years, and his ambition to feature regularly for Nigeria aligns with the Super Eagles’ need for reliable options between the posts as they navigate a busy international schedule.
