Maduka Okoye ready to battle Nwabali for Super Eagles starting spot

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Maduka Okoye is determined to reclaim the Super Eagles’ number one goalkeeping spot.

The Udinese shot-stopper was previously Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper under former head coach Gernot Rohr.

However, a lackluster performance at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon cost him his position, followed by a challenging stint at Watford that kept him sidelined from the national team for years.

Now 25, Okoye has revitalized his career at Serie A side Udinese. His standout performance in Nigeria’s 1-1 friendly draw against Russia on Friday night at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow showcased his renewed form.

With confidence restored, Okoye is eager to challenge for his former role.

“Of course, we know what Nwabali has done for our country.

“He’s a very good goalkeeper, and I think he deserves it because I never got to the level I have with the Super Eagles,” Okoye told Flashscore, acknowledging his competitor Stanley Nwabali.

“So, I really hope that I get to my level, and he deserves to play right now, but I think there are always going to be some chances and opportunities, and I just have to be ready when they’re coming.”