"I Just Have to Be Ready" — Maduka Okoye Eyes Super Eagles No. 1 Spot After Russia Heroics

Maduka Okoye is officially back in the spotlight, and this time, he’s not just satisfied with being in the squad — he wants the Super Eagles' number one jersey back.

After years in the shadows following his disappointing 2021 AFCON performance and a tough spell at Watford, the 25-year-old shot-stopper is rediscovering his best form at Serie A side, Udinese.

His recent performance in Nigeria’s 1-1 international friendly against Russia on Friday was a loud statement: Okoye isn’t done yet.

Speaking to Flashscore, Okoye showed maturity and focus:

“Of course, we know what Nwabali has done for our country. He’s a very good goalkeeper and I think he deserves it…

I never got to the level I have with the Super Eagles. So, I really hope that I get to my level… I just have to be ready when opportunities come.”

Opinion: Okoye's Redemption Arc Could Be Exactly What Nigeria Needs

In football, comebacks are always special — but they hit differently when the player is someone like Maduka Okoye: young, talented, written off too early, and now hungry to prove a point.

Yes, Stanley Nwabali has earned his flowers, especially after his rock-solid AFCON 2023 performance. But depth in the goalkeeping department is what separates good national teams from great ones. And Okoye’s resurgence brings competition, not controversy.

If Okoye keeps up his form in Italy, his calmness on the ball, reflexes, and improved confidence will make him a strong contender for Nigeria’s No. 1 shirt again — especially with the 2025 AFCON and World Cup qualifiers looming.

This is no longer the boy who flinched under pressure in Cameroon. This is a man who’s been bruised, benched, and now — boldly bouncing back.

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