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Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has expressed pride in representing the Super Eagles, emphasizing that it remains a profound honour despite the team’s disappointing 2-1 loss to Rwanda in their final Group D game of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
The match marked Okoye’s return to the national team after a two-year absence.
He stepped in for first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who was unavailable due to the recent passing of his father.
Okoye’s last appearance for Nigeria was during the 2021 AFCON round of 16 match against Tunisia, a game that ended in heartbreak for the Super Eagles.
His return against Rwanda was seen as an opportunity for redemption, but the result reignited criticism of his performances.
Following the loss, some fans took to social media to express their frustration, with harsh comments labelling Okoye “a basket” and accusing him of not improving.
Undeterred by the backlash, Okoye addressed the situation on Instagram three days later, sharing his gratitude for the opportunity to don the national jersey again.
“Despite the result, I’m more than happy and grateful to have played in this jersey again,” Okoye wrote.
“It has always been, it is, and it will forever be an honour to represent Nigeria.”
While the defeat was disappointing, it had no impact on Nigeria’s qualification for AFCON 2025.
The Super Eagles had already secured their spot as group winners with 11 points from six matches.
The loss to Rwanda marked Nigeria’s only defeat in the qualifiers, but the team’s dominant campaign ensures they remain a formidable force heading into the World Cup qualifiers in March.
