Okoye arrives Super Eagles camp ahead of Madagascar clash

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has joined the team’s camp in Uyo ahead of Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Madagascar on Friday.

The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed his arrival on Friday in 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 final member of Nigeria’s 24-man squad to arrive in camp after missing the team’s first two training sessions.

His late arrival had sparked criticism after he was seen at Milan Fashion Week, where he represented Udinese and modelled the Italian club’s third kit.

The goalkeeper was also pictured with American rapper Cardi B during the event.

However, Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle had explained that Udinese asked Okoye to remain in Italy to participate in some club activities before travelling to join the national team.

With his arrival, Chelle now has all three goalkeeping options available, with Okoye joining Stanley Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo.

Nigeria will take on Madagascar at 5pm on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, in their first Group L fixture of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.