AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Maduka Okoye still part of Super Eagles plans despite omission for Tanzania games – Eric Chelle

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has insisted Maduka Okoye remains part of his plans for Nigeria despite leaving the Udinese goalkeeper out of the squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania.

Okoye’s absence has attracted attention amid growing scrutiny of his performances for club and country, with questions also raised about his commitment to the national team.

The former Watford goalkeeper came under criticism from Nigerian supporters after arriving late at the Super Eagles camp during the September international break.

His omission from the latest squad has therefore fuelled speculation about his standing in the national team, particularly as Nigeria prepare for a crucial double-header against Tanzania.

However, Chelle has moved to clarify his position, stressing that the goalkeeper has not been permanently excluded from the national setup.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Malian tactician explained that Okoye’s absence was a selection decision rather than an indication that his international career had come to an end.

“Maduka Okoye is in the national team. I made the choice like the other players, the national team is not closed for him or them. I made my choice,” Chelle revealed.

The Super Eagles coach maintained that every player remains eligible for selection, insisting that his decisions are guided by his assessment of what the team needs at a particular time.

Chelle explains selection criteria as Okoye battles for recall

Chelle further revealed that his decision-making process extends beyond performances during matches, with players’ contributions away from the pitch also considered.

The former Mali coach explained that team chemistry, group dynamics and tactical requirements all influenced his decision to leave Okoye out of the squad.

He suggested that selecting players involves assessing their overall contribution to the group rather than relying exclusively on individual ability.

“When I made my choice, it was on the pitch and around the pitch. We need to have a good position in the group. How do we feel in that group?

“What happened on the pitch and around the pitch, I made my choice with that. I have a tactical thinking and I tried to make the best choice,” he concluded.

His comments suggest that the goalkeeper’s omission was part of a broader assessment of the squad as Nigeria seek to strengthen their position in the qualifying campaign.

Difficult Udinese campaign adds to Okoye’s struggles

Okoye’s exclusion also comes at a difficult period in his career, with the 26-year-old struggling to deliver consistent performances for Udinese in the 2026/27 Serie A campaign.

The Nigerian has managed just one clean sheet in 11 league appearances, conceding 25 goals during that period.

Those statistics have intensified scrutiny of his performances as he attempts to establish himself as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.

The former Watford shot-stopper had previously been an important figure for the Super Eagles, but his recent struggles have raised questions about his current form.