Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye explains why he declined an invitation to represent Nigeria at AFCON 2025

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye has explained why he declined an invitation to represent Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

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The goalkeeper was a notable absentee from the Super Eagles squad for the tournament held in Morocco.

The 26-year-old missed the start of the 2025/26 season due to a suspension linked to an alleged betting scandal.

Okoye said he chose to skip the tournament to focus on regaining full fitness after spending a long period out of competitive action.

He added that it was also important for him to repay Udinese for their support during his difficult period.

“Since I was not Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, I believed it was better to remain at Udinese, work on my form, and also show appreciation to the club for standing by me,” he told German publication Kicker.

Okoye has now been included in Nigeria’s squad for upcoming international friendlies against Iran and Jordan.