Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has handed Arthur Okonkwo another opportunity to push for a place in Nigeria’s competitive plans, with the Charlton Athletic goalkeeper included in the coach’s preliminary selection for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Chelle has begun the process of sending out preliminary invitations ahead of Nigeria’s opening qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, with the final squad expected to be trimmed and confirmed closer to the matches.
Okonkwo has already impressed Chelle during his previous outings for the Super Eagles. The 24-year-old made his senior debut in the Unity Cup, keeping consecutive clean sheets in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe and 3-0 win against Jamaica. His performances during the tournament reportedly earned him the coach’s trust and further opportunities.
The Charlton goalkeeper is now in contention for his competitive debut with Nigeria as the Super Eagles prepare to begin their 2027 AFCON qualification campaign. Nigeria are scheduled to host Madagascar in Uyo on September 23 before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.
Okonkwo, who joined Charlton on loan from Wrexham for the season, will face competition from established Super Eagles goalkeepers including Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye.
His inclusion in the preliminary list, however, gives him another chance to strengthen his claim for a regular place under Chelle as Nigeria begin their qualifying campaign.
