Udinese’s goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye has expressed joy following his recall to the national team for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Okoye, who has been instrumental in Udinese’s recent performances, has earned a spot among the 23 players selected by Nigeria’s head coach, Finidi George, for the crucial matches against South Africa and Benin Republic.

He last donned the national team jersey at the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 tie against Tunisia, although he was in camp for friendly matches against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique in October 2023.

The 24 year-old’s recall is due to his recent consistent and impressive form for Udinese, where his stellar performances helped secure the club’s Serie A status.

Throughout the season, he made 22 appearances across various competitions, recording five clean sheets.

His heroic saves in the crucial final match of the season against Frosinone, ensured Udinese’s survival.

Following Udinese’s narrow victory over Frosinone, Okoye expressed his enthusiasm at the prospect of rejoining the Super Eagles squad for World Cup qualification.

“I am very happy to return to the national team. It is a great honour for me and my family to play for Nigeria,” Okoye told Udinese official website.

The Super Eagles, will face Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7.

Afterwards the three-time African champions will embark on a journey to Abidjan to face Benin Republic just three days later.