As the new coach of the senior national team of Nigeria Finidi George settles down into his new post , a call has been made to him for the return of Maduka Okoye as the number one goalkeeper of the team, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
Okoye held the position of first choice all through the qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup and at the following AFCON in Cameroon. He was roundly criticized for the goal Nigeria conceded in the round of 16 game against Tunisia, which led to their exit from the tournament.
He stayed away from the team for the World Cup Qualifiers playoff and in his absence which he extended to the last AFCON, a new shot stopper in Stanley Nwabali emerged and was one of the stars of the Nigerian team that went all the way to the final where they were beaten 1-2 by the host Cote d’Ivoire.
Nwabali displaced Francis Uzoho and now firmly holds the position, but former Nigeria junior international Monday Kanu says it’s time to bring back Okoye, who has shown his willingness to be back in the fold after keeping goal in 20 consecutive Serie A games for Udinese, who are now safe from relegation.
“For me, the choice falls squarely between Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye. Based on their recent performances, the keeper jersey seems to favour Okoye, who has been in impressive form for Udinese, showcasing his skills and consistency in goal for the club. Nwabali has also been outstanding for both club and country, but Okoye is a more refined keper,” said the former Bendel Insurance Julius Berger FC player in an interview with Punch Extra.
“While Nwabali has shown flashes of brilliance, Okoye’s current form and confidence make him the stronger contender for the No. 1 spot. Okoye’s ability to command the box, distribute the ball effectively, and make decisive saves will earn him the nod ahead of Nwabali. On the other hand, based on the latest outing for the Super Eagles, the pendulum appears to tilt to Nwabali if we go by the cliché that says if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it,” added the 1992 graduate of the prestigious Howard University, Washington, DC, USA.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
