Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye will miss Tuesday’s friendly against Jordan due to a thigh injury. The Nigeria media team confirmed the setback, noting Okoye suffered the injury during training sessions. Head coach Eric Chelle now must choose between Francis Uzoho and Adebayo Adeleye for goal.
Okoye’s absence adds to multiple squad absentees, challenging Nigeria ahead of their Antalya fixture. Defenders Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi have also left the camp for personal reasons. Ajayi missed training due to injury, while Onyemaechi left following the birth of his child. Earlier, Trabzonspor’s Chibuike Nwaiwu replaced injured Calvin Bassey in the squad for Antalya.
First-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and striker Victor Osimhen were not included in the roster. Osimhen continues recovery after surgery on a fractured forearm, delaying his return to action. Despite absences, the team trained hard and maintained high spirits ahead of the match. Nigeria opened the tournament with a 2-1 win over Iran, boosting confidence in Antalya.
Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams secured the victory in the opening game. Debuts for Nwaiwu and Emmanuel Fernandez provided fresh options for Chelle’s expanding squad. The team blends experienced stars like Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Simon with younger talents.
Yira Sor and other emerging players press for opportunities in upcoming fixtures. Victory against Jordan will confirm Nigeria as champions of the four-nation tournament in Antalya. Preparations continue as the squad focuses on strategy, fitness, and team cohesion before kickoff.
