Representing Nigeria has always been my dream – Maduka Okoye

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has stated that his childhood ambition was to represent Nigeria, despite his eligibility to play for Germany.

Born in Dusseldorf to a Nigerian father and German mother, Okoye made his Super Eagles debut on October 13, 2019.

It was the first of the 16 appearances the 24-year-old registered for Nigeria before taking a break from the team ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

“Yes, it has always been Nigeria for me, a childhood dream playing for the Super Eagles,” Okoye told Tribal Football.

“Lutz played a big part in that. He was in good contact with Nigeria’s former coach Gernot Rohr; he opened that door for me.

“With Rohr, I had a fantastic coach in my early years as a Super Eagle, I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunities he gave me in that time!”

Okoye returned to the Super Eagles squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic in July. Though the 24-year-old has lost the Super Eagles’ number-one spot to Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali, he has established himself as Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Okoye joined the Italian outfit from Watford ahead of the 2023/24 season but didn’t get his chance till the middle of the season.

The ex-Watford goalkeeper played a huge role in Udinese’s escape from relegation in the 2023/24 Serie A season.

Having recorded 65 saves from 90 shots across 21 appearances last season, Okoye has his eyes set on a better 2034/25 season with the Zebras.

“My hopes with Udinese this year are to become stable as a team and bring the club and fans back where they belong! Forza Udinese!” he said.