AFCON qualifiers: ‘I made my choice’ – Eric Chelle clears air on Maduka Okoye’s snub

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has clarified the reasons behind his decision to exclude Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Tanzania.

Okoye’s absence comes at a time when the goalkeeper has faced increasing scrutiny over his recent performances for both club and country. His form at Italian side Udinese has attracted criticism, while questions have also emerged about his commitment to the national team.

The former Watford shot-stopper also came under fire from Nigerian supporters after reporting late to the Super Eagles camp during the September international break.

However, Chelle has insisted that Okoye has not been permanently ruled out of the national team, stressing that the goalkeeper remains eligible for future selection.

Speaking during a press conference, the Malian tactician explained that his squad decisions are influenced by players’ performances, their conduct away from the pitch and what they bring to the overall team structure.

“Maduka Okoye is in the national team. I made the choice like the other players; the national team is not closed to him or them. I made my choice,” Chelle said.

The Super Eagles boss further explained that his decision-making process involved assessing the team’s atmosphere, individual contributions and the tactical demands of the upcoming fixtures.

“When I made my choice, it was based on what happened on the pitch and around it. We need to have a good position in the group. How do we feel within that group?

“What happened on the pitch and around it informed my choice. I have a tactical approach, and I tried to make the best decision,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Okoye has endured a challenging start to the 2026/27 campaign with Udinese, managing just one clean sheet while conceding 25 goals in 11 league appearances.

His recent struggles could make it difficult for him to regain his place in the Super Eagles squad, although Chelle’s comments suggest that the door remains open for a return if his performances and overall contributions improve.