The goalkeeping battle in the Super Eagles camp is beginning to take clear shape, with Stanley Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo emerging as the two available options as Nigeria continue preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Both goalkeepers were captured by Softfootball Media during training in Uyo as Éric Chelle’s squad stepped up preparations for Friday’s crucial encounter against Madagascar.
Watch The Video Below;
Okoye Yet to Report to Camp
Maduka Okoye has not yet arrived in Uyo. The Udinese goalkeeper was spotted in Milan on Wednesday night during Milan Fashion Week, pictured alongside American rapper Cardi B. SoftFootball understands that Okoye received permission from head coach Éric Chelle to remain away from camp until later.
With training already underway, attention has shifted to the two goalkeepers available to the coaching crew. Nwabali and Okonkwo now have the opportunity to impress Chelle and his staff as they compete for the starting spot ahead of the qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea‑Bissau.
Okonkwo’s Special Milestone
For Arthur Okonkwo, this camp marks a memorable moment. The Charlton Athletic goalkeeper trained on Nigerian soil for the first time on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, after joining the Super Eagles camp in Uyo.
Watch His Exclusive Interview speaking with Softfootball, about training with the Super Eagles on the Nigerian soil for the first Time;
His arrival adds further competition to the department, with his recent international involvement giving Chelle another strong option to consider.
Nwabali’s Experience vs Okonkwo’s Momentum
Nwabali’s experience in African football and Okonkwo’s growing presence in the national setup create a compelling contest for the No.1 shirt. With Okoye absent, the battle between the two available goalkeepers is expected to intensify as preparations continue.
Nigeria host Madagascar on September 25 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, before travelling to face Guinea‑Bissau in their next qualifying fixture.
