Maduka Okoye: Will Udinese star be ready to boost Super Eagles for World Cup qualifiers?

Udinese goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, is set to bolster the Super Eagles squad for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with his return from injury, Soccernet.ng reports. 

Okoye, who is currently recovering from a serious injury to his right wrist, is raising questions about his availability for Nigeria's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

The 24-year-old, who has been one of the top performers for the Friulian club this season, underwent surgery to repair a torn scapholunate ligament, which would keep him sidelined for several weeks.

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However, a journalist for Gazzetta dello Sport, Nicoli Angeli, has informed Soccernet.ng that Okoye is expected to make a return to action in the first week of March.

This news brings some relief to the Nigerian football community, as they face Rwanda on March 17th in Kigali, continuing their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Okoye has been one of Udinese's standout performers this season, accumulating 1,260 minutes in 14 appearances, firming his place as one of Serie A's most reliable goalkeepers.

His absence, due to the wrist injury, has been felt by the club, but his potential return in early March provides hope for both Udinese and the Super Eagles.

Though Udinese has not given a specific date for his return, typical recovery timelines for this type of injury range between eight to twelve weeks.

However, Okoye’s rehabilitation progress could accelerate, which makes him available for the crucial World Cup qualifier against Rwanda.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s coaching staff, led by interim manager Augustine Eguavoen, will closely monitor Okoye’s recovery.