Super Eagles: Okoye gives reason for AFCON 2025 absence

Sport Super Eagles: Okoye gives reason for AFCON 2025 absence Published on March 27, 2026 By Mike Oyebola googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1500386953281-8'); }); Maduka Okoye has explained the reason behind his decision to decline invitation to feature at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, DAILY POST reports Okoye was a surprise omission from Nigeria’s squad to the competition which was hosted by Morocco. The 26-year-old missed the start of the 2025/26 season due to suspension for his alleged involvement in a betting scandal. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1524595905268-5'); }); The former Watford goalkeeper said he took the decision to opt out of the AFCON to work on his fitness following his absence from competitive football. Okoye further stated that it was also important for him to repay Udinese for standing by him during his absence. “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 during a difficult period,” he told Kicker. Okoye is expected to be in goal when the Super Eagles take on Iran in an international friendly in Antalya, Turkey on Friday (today). Don't Miss Relegation: Osun FA seeks Deputy Governor’s direct intervention You may like Trabzonspor celebrate Nwaiwu’s maiden Super Eagles invitation 2026 World Cup play-off: Super Eagles’ hopes dim as DR Congo face Jamaica for ticket ‘He brings energy to pitch’ – Maduka Okoye names special Super Eagles teammate Super Eagles: Nwaiwu replaces injured Bassey for Iran, Jordan friendlies Friendly game: ‘Nigerians will have no choice but to love him’ – Chelle on new Super Eagles star, Collins Transfer: Everton join chase for Super Eagles new boy Fernandez

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/03/27/super-eagles-okoye-gives-reason-for-afcon-2025-absence/