Six GKs Eric Chelle must recruit for Nigeria, including Crystal Palace product with 17 clean sheets

As Nigeria prepares for crucial World Cup qualifiers, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle faces the task of strengthening the squad to boost their chances of making it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.  

Currently sitting fifth in their qualification group, the Super Eagles must secure vital wins to revive their campaign.

While the team boasts quality across several positions, the goalkeeping department remains a concern that needs urgent reinforcement.  

With Stanley Nwabali emerging as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, competition in the position is necessary to ensure depth and consistency.

Several goalkeepers of Nigerian descent, playing across Europe and beyond, could provide much-needed quality between the posts.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents six goalkeepers Chelle should consider convincing to play for Nigeria.  

Noah Atubolu
 
Atubolu, a promising 22-year-old goalkeeper, currently plays for Freiburg in the Bundesliga and remains eligible to represent Nigeria.

His performances for the German club have been impressive, registering eight clean sheets in 20 league appearances.

His ability to command his box, make key saves, and play with composure under pressure would be a major asset to the Super Eagles.

Adding Atubolu to the squad would enhance the team’s goalkeeping options and provide strong competition for Stanley Nwabali.  

Arthur Okonkwo

Okonkwo, formerly of Arsenal and now playing for Wrexham, has been on Nigeria’s radar for years.

A modern goalkeeper known for his composure, quick reflexes, and distribution, he would be a good fit for Chelle’s tactical approach, which demands goalkeepers who are comfortable playing out from the back.  

A product of Arsenal’s Hale End academy, Okonkwo has the technical qualities to strengthen the Super Eagles and add much-needed depth to the goalkeeping department. His presence would also push Nwabali to maintain top form.  

Owen Goodman

Goodman, a 21-year-old goalkeeper for AFC Wimbledon in League Two, has had a standout season, keeping 17 clean sheets in 31 games while conceding just 20 goals.  

He is a commanding presence in the box, with excellent aerial ability and shot-stopping skills.

With Maduka Okoye currently absent from the team due to off-field issues, Goodman could be a reliable alternative, bringing defensive stability to the Super Eagles.  

Joshua Oluwayemi

Another goalkeeper who could strengthen Nigeria’s squad is Joshua Oluwayemi, who currently plays in the A-League for Wellington.

Despite limited game time, the young shot-stopper has managed three clean sheets this season.  

Oluwayemi’s addition would increase the options available to Chelle and create more competition within the goalkeeping unit.  

Tobias Lawal

Lawal, a talented goalkeeper for LASK in the Austrian Bundesliga, has been in fine form in recent years.

Although he has been invited to the Austrian national team camp before, he is yet to make an appearance, keeping him eligible to switch allegiances.  

The 24-year-old has kept two clean sheets in six games this season, and his experience in European football would be valuable for Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign.

His inclusion would add depth and much-needed competition for the starting goalkeeper spot.  

Leo Kokubo

Kokubo, currently playing for Sint-Truiden in the Belgian Pro League, has represented Japan at the Olympics but remains eligible for Nigeria as he has yet to make a senior appearance.

Known for his quick reflexes and shot-stopping ability, he has recorded three clean sheets in the league so far.  

A goalkeeper with European experience, Kokubo could fit well into Chelle’s tactical setup and provide the Super Eagles with another solid option between the posts.  

As Nigeria looks to strengthen key areas ahead of the decisive World Cup qualifiers, the goalkeeping department remains a priority.

Convincing any of these talented goalkeepers to commit to the Super Eagles would not only add quality to the squad but also increase competition, ensuring that the team has reliable options in a crucial position.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: afcwimbledon.co.uk

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