Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba has welcomed the potential return of Maduka Okoye ahead of the World Cup continental playoffs in November.
Aiyenugba described it as a positive development for the squad’s goalkeeping department.
Okoye is expected to be recalled to the Super Eagles, adding depth and competition to the goalkeeping unit.
Jamie Vardy competes for the ball with Maduka Okoye. (Photo | Getty Images)
Aiyenugba highlighted the presence of Okoye, Adebayo Adeleye, Amas Obasogie, and Stanley Nwabali as a catalyst for healthy rivalry that will elevate the performance of Nigeria’s goalkeepers.
Speaking on the importance of competition, Aiyenugba emphasized that it prevents complacency and pushes players to strive for excellence.
“It’s good that Okoye’s return to the team is a positive development,” Aiyenugba said.
“We have Adeleye, we have Amas, we have Nwabali — four of them. During our time, we made sure to keep Joseph [Dosu] on his toes. There was this fighting spirit, like, ‘You’re there, but we’re going to challenge you.’ They should allow this to happen in this generation too. Let them fight.”
He added that Nwabali, despite being the current number one, must remain focused and not become complacent.
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“Nwabali is number one, and I respect him, but he shouldn’t feel too comfortable. He needs to know others are chasing his spot. Good, healthy competition will bring out his best — especially for goalkeepers.”
Okoye’s return comes after a period of absence from the national team, and his inclusion is expected to intensify the battle for the number-one spot.
Stanley Nwabali, who has been Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, will now face increased pressure to maintain his position, while Adeleye and Obasogie are also eager to stake their claims.
Aiyenugba reflected a broader sentiment that competition within the Super Eagles, particularly ahead of the upcoming World Cup continental playoffs.
