'I brought Okoye and Nwabali to Super Eagles' - Former MVV star labels Udinese GK one of Africa's best

Retired Nigeria international and former MVV Maastricht star Alloy Agu, has praised Super Eagles shot-stopper Maduka Okoye, describing him as one of the best African goalkeepers currently.

Agu, who was formerly the Super Eagles goalkeeper coach, highlighted Okoye's unique combination of qualities. 

The 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner expressed his admiration for Okoye's talent and rise to prominence.

Agu recalled discovering Okoye's potential during his time at Dusseldorf and bringing him to the national team.

He emphasized the importance of having quality goalkeepers for Nigeria, citing the Udinese glovesman and Nwabali as examples.

"It is difficult to take a starting spot at top European clubs, but Okoye has made it easy. However, Maduka cannot afford to relax, he must continue to work hard," Agu was quoted as saying by Tutto Udinese.

I have always known about his talent since his time at Dusseldorf. I saw his potential and brought him to the national team, despite not everyone believing in him. It is not a stroke of luck that he has risen through the ranks.

"I think he is one of the best African goalkeepers, not only because of his talent but also because of a combination of factors such as age and height."

Agu continued: "I brought both him and Nwabali to the national team. Nwabali made his debut against Mexico in Los Angeles, while Okoye against Brazil. I coached both of them. Having two quality goalkeepers for Nigeria is important.

"At the moment, Nwabali is doing well and Okoye has to bide his time. Maduka must play regularly and do well with Udinese, so that he will be ready when he gets the chance to play for Nigeria too."

Born in Germany, Okoye has 16 senior caps for Nigeria and played in Germany, the Netherlands and England before joining Udinese in 2023.

The 25-year-old has not figured for the Super Eagles since going the distance against Tunisia in the round of 16 of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

Okoye, who has been included in the latest Nigeria squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin and Rwanda, has posted four clean sheets in all competitions so far in the 2024-2025 season. 

Ejim Kaycee

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