Maduka Okoye Dropped From Super Eagles Squad, Uzoho Returns

According to a report by Daily Post on Saturday November 7, 2026, Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has reportedly been dropped from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Tanzania, while Francis Uzoho has received a recall to the national team.

According to reports, the Udinese goalkeeper was left out of Éric Chelle’s selection following concerns over his conduct during the previous international camp.

Okoye was reportedly involved in another late arrival incident during Nigeria’s last international assignment, having arrived on the day of the match against Madagascar.

The report claims that the 27-year-old was initially granted an additional day off but ended up spending two extra days away from the team.

His absence has reportedly not gone down well with the coaching staff, with Chelle previously hinting that disciplinary action could be taken against the goalkeeper.

The Super Eagles coach has now reportedly taken the first step by excluding Okoye from the squad for the two important fixtures against Tanzania.

Nigeria will host the Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on November 13 before travelling to Zanzibar for the return encounter on November 17.

Meanwhile, Chelle has decided to recall Francis Uzoho, who will compete for a place alongside Stanley Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo.

Nwabali is expected to remain Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper for the two matches, having established himself as the preferred option between the posts.

Uzoho’s return provides another opportunity for the goalkeeper to revive his international career and challenge for a regular place in the Super Eagles setup.

Okoye’s latest omission also raises fresh questions about his future with the Nigerian national team.

The Udinese shot-stopper has previously missed important international assignments, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off against Ghana and the last two editions of the Africa Cup of Nations.

His latest absence could therefore represent another setback in his efforts to establish himself as a regular member of the Super Eagles squad.

However, it remains unclear whether the decision will have a lasting impact on his international career or whether he could return to the team in future selections.

For now, attention will be on Uzoho’s return and how Nigeria’s goalkeeping options shape up ahead of the crucial double-header against Tanzania.

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