By Daily Sports Nigeria on March 20, 2026

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has shifted his focus away from the disappointment of missing out on the 2026 World Cup, expressing hope that the Nigeria national football team will make the most of their chances and qualify for the 2030 edition, to be hosted by Morocco, Portugal and Spain, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Nigeria fell short of an automatic ticket during the qualifying series and missed the chance to qualify via the intercontinental playoff after losing to DR Congo on penalties in the African playoff final.

There has been a wave of controversy since the final, with the Nigeria Football Federation seeking the disqualification of DR Congo over the alleged use of ineligible players.

While FIFA has since rejected the petition and the NFF is moving to appeal, Okoye believes another opportunity awaits when the next qualification window opens.

“National team football is a different kind of football, and if I really had the answer, we might be in the World Cup. But I don’t really know, because of the quality we have. We have great players, top-level players, top characters in the team. Hopefully, we get it done next time,” Okoye told SportyTV.

Okoye, who missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, is set to rejoin coach Eric Chelle’s squad as the Franco-Malian tactician begins another phase of rebuilding with the Super Eagles.

Despite not being part of the 2025 AFCON squad, Okoye still felt the disappointment of falling short of the title.

“I was watching from home as a supporter, like all the other 200–300 million Nigerians. We deserved to win the Cup, but next year is already the next opportunity for us, and we will do everything to bring it home again.”

Addressing Nigeria’s struggles on the global stage, particularly in World Cup qualification, Okoye acknowledged the team’s quality but admitted uncertainty over the challenges faced.

Born in Germany to Nigerian parents, the Udinese Calcio goalkeeper credited his strong ties to Nigeria for his choice, despite representing Germany at youth level.

“I grew up in Germany, but my father was very present in my life, especially in my younger years. So, I keep a lot of Nigeria inside of me, and I’m very proud of it,” Okoye told SportyTV.

“Yeah, I always knew I wanted to play for Nigeria, and back then I didn’t have another option.

“Of course, I went to the German youth selections, but when the time came for Nigeria, I knew this was a dream, and I made that come true by God’s grace.”

The 26-year-old also acknowledged how much that support has meant to him throughout his career, from his early days in Germany to his current stint in Italy.

“It means a lot that Nigerians always support you. It started in my days at Fortuna Düsseldorf to Rotterdam and now in Udine, and they have always been there. They always support from back home, and it means a lot. I’m very grateful and thankful.”

Source Punch Ng

Posted March 20, 2026

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