Why I Dropped Maduka Okoye From Super Eagles Team – Chelle Opens Up

According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria on Thursday, November 12, 2026, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has opened up on his decision to drop Maduka Okoye from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Tanzania.

The Udinese goalkeeper was surprisingly left out of Chelle’s 24-man squad despite being part of the team during the previous international window.

His omission has raised questions about his standing in the national team.

Okoye’s absence follows his late arrival at the Super Eagles camp ahead of Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Madagascar in September.

The goalkeeper reported on the morning of the match, leaving Chelle to rely on Stanley Nwabali between the posts.

Nwabali subsequently retained his place for Nigeria’s second qualifier against Guinea-Bissau, which ended in a disappointing 3-0 defeat.

Many expected Okoye to return to the squad for the Tanzania fixtures, but Chelle instead recalled Francis Uzoho, who was absent from the previous international window.

Explaining his decision, the Franco-Malian tactician questioned Okoye’s recent commitment to the national team.

He also raised concerns about the goalkeeper’s relationship with other members of the squad away from the pitch.

“The national team is not close to him or anyone. I made my choice and when I made my choice I made it around the pitch and outside it,” Chelle said.

The coach’s comments suggest that his decision was not based solely on performances on the pitch but also on the goalkeeper’s conduct and relationship with the team.

Meanwhile, Chelle has selected Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, and Arthur Okonkwo as his three goalkeeping options for the two-legged encounter against Tanzania.

The Super Eagles will host the Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before travelling for the return fixture on November 17.

Nigeria will be looking to secure maximum points from both matches to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

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