– Former Nigeria international and goalkeeper coach, Alloy Agu, has praised Udinese shot-stopper Maduka Okoye, calling him one of the best goalkeepers in Africa, according to All Nigeria Soccer.
- Agu, a former player for MVV Maastricht, revealed his key role in bringing Okoye and fellow goalkeeper Nwabali to the Super Eagles.
- His admiration for Okoye is based on a unique combination of talent, age, and physical attributes. “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 stated.
- The 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner recalled discovering Okoye’s potential during his time at Dusseldorf. “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.”
- Agu emphasized the importance of having quality goalkeepers for Nigeria, highlighting Okoye and Nwabali as prime examples. “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.”
- Okoye, 25, has 16 senior caps for Nigeria and has played in Germany, the Netherlands, and England before joining Udinese in 2023. Despite not featuring for the Super Eagles since the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, Okoye has been included in the latest Nigeria squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin and Rwanda.- Agu cautioned Okoye against complacency, stressing the need for consistent hard work. “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.”
- With four clean sheets in all competitions this season, Okoye is poised to become a mainstay in the Super Eagles’ goal. Agu’s guidance and expertise will undoubtedly benefit Okoye’s development, as Nigeria seeks to build a strong foundation for future success.
