In other news, Maduka Okoye has officially chosen vibes over vigilance, and the Super Eagles are not amused.
The Udinese goalkeeper was the only player out of the 24 invited by head coach Eric Chelle who failed to report to camp ahead of Nigeria's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. While 23 players trained in Ikot-Ekpene on Tuesday, Okoye was in Milan, spotted with American rapper Cardi B at a Vogue World after-party.
(doing a cartwheel like JJ Okocha)
Okoye had been Chelle's first-choice goalkeeper during Stanley Nwabali's absence, starting both June friendlies against Poland and Portugal. But with Nwabali back in camp and Okoye nowhere to be found, his spot is now in serious doubt.
(shakes head like Kanu Nwakwo)
The Super Eagles face Madagascar on Friday, September 25, and Okoye's chances of starting are reportedly "all but over" given his late arrival, if he arrives at all.
But here is what the blogs did not tell you.
Okoye was not actually in Milan for Cardi B. He was there to collect a pair of sneakers he lent her three months ago. Sources say he has been sending WhatsApp reminders since July, and she kept saying she would bring them to the next fashion event. He flew to Milan specifically to get them back, but when he arrived at the after-party, she was wearing them. He is now considering the sneakers a loss and his international career a casualty of footwear.
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Source: One of Okoye's teammates, Salami George, who confirmed he has been complaining about the sneakers since August.
