Okoye Faces Backlash Over Habitual Eagles Late Arrival

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has faced criticism after becoming the last player to report to camp ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

The Super Eagles camp opened on Sunday, with 23 players arriving by Monday and taking part in the team’s first training session. Okoye was the only invited player yet to report at that stage.

The situation attracted further attention after footage surfaced on social media showing the Udinese goalkeeper at Milan Fashion Week, where he modelled his club’s third kit and was seen speaking with American rapper Cardi B.

The footage sparked criticism from Nigerian fans and journalists, who questioned why Okoye had not yet joined his international teammates as preparations for Friday’s match against Madagascar continued.

Journalist Samuel Areo questioned the communication surrounding the goalkeeper’s absence, while some supporters urged the Nigeria Football Federation to address what they described as a recurring issue.

A fan, Leye Mabeoruoraye, called on the NFF to take action, alleging that Okoye had repeatedly been among the last players to arrive for international assignments.

The latest incident has also revived memories of previous occasions when Okoye reported late to Super Eagles camp.

In June 2024, he was the last player to arrive ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin Republic. He was also criticised for arriving late during preparations for Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON qualifiers in November 2025.

Okoye has recently regained prominence in the national team after impressive performances against Poland and Portugal in June. His displays appeared to strengthen his position under head coach Éric Chelle.

However, Stanley Nwabali has returned to the squad for the current AFCON qualifiers, while Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo is also available.

Okoye eventually joined the Super Eagles camp, but his delayed arrival has raised questions over his preparation and involvement in the opening qualifier.

Nigeria will face Madagascar on Friday before taking on Guinea-Bissau in another 2027 AFCON qualifying fixture.

Okoye has made 21 appearances for Nigeria since his international debut against Brazil in October 2019 and remains one of the goalkeeping options available to Chelle.