Nigeria gets full house ahead of Madagascar clash after Maduka Okoye arrival

Nigeria’s preparations for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign have received a boost with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye joining the Super Eagles camp in Uyo ahead of Friday’s clash against Madagascar.

The Udinese shot-stopper arrived in camp on Thursday, completing the 24-man squad assembled by head coach Éric Chelle for the opening qualifier.

Okoye had been granted permission to delay his arrival due to personal and family commitments but has now linked up with his teammates as the squad steps up preparations for the crucial encounter.

His arrival makes him the final member of the squad to report to camp, giving Chelle a full complement of players ahead of Nigeria’s Group C opener.

Okoye’s late arrival had attracted attention, particularly after he was spotted in Milan, Italy, earlier in the week alongside American rapper Cardi B.

However, the goalkeeper has now turned his attention to international duty and will be available for selection as Nigeria prepare to begin their bid to qualify for the 2027 AFCON tournament.

The Super Eagles will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, with Chelle hoping his side can make a winning start to the qualifying campaign.

Nigeria will also face Guinea-Bissau during the current international window as the Super Eagles look to build early momentum in their qualification push.