SUPER EAGLES

Maduka Okoye is not bothered about Nigeria's World Cup failure

Joba Ogunwale 12:17 - 23 May 2022

Maduka Okoye and Oghenekaro Etebo both brought the spice on social media

The three-time African champions will not play in Qatar, but the team's shot-stopper is not too concerned. 

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye says it is a shame that Nigeria will not be at the World Cup this year, but he is not too bothered over the miss.

The Super Eagles missed out on a place in Qatar after they lost to Ghana in the playoff via the away goals rule. The three-time African champions played out a 0-0 draw against the Black Stars at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi before playing a 1-1 draw at the Moshood Abiola Stadium.

Nigeria failed to secure a 2022 World Cup qualification in Abuja after playing a 1-1 draw against Ghana

Nigeria failed to secure World Cup qualification in Abuja after playing a 1-1 draw against Ghana

Okoye signs off in style, Iheanacho, Lookman benched as Leicester cook Watford

Okoye was absent from both games due to an illness, but he would have been on the plane to Qatar if Nigeria had beaten Ghana for the ticket.

Okoye not affected by the World Cup failure

Nonetheless, despite the disappointment of missing out on World Cup qualification, the new Watford goalkeeper is not too bothered.

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"Unfortunately, the World Cup dream has burst for now, Okoye told Transfer Markt.

"But, if I calculate correctly, I can still qualify for at least three world championships with the team given my age.

"That's why I don't stress about it at all. It's a shame, of course, because it's a huge opportunity that you're missing out on.

Maduka Okoye

Okoye, who was heavily criticised after Nigeria's crashed out at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, believes the team's World Cup failure will fuel him to work harder.

"But I don't see that as a problem, but as a reason to work even harder because it wasn't enough now.

"I am very sure that we will do it again," Okoye added.

Okoye's new mission

The 22-year-old has represented Nigeria at one major international tournament but could make it two if Nigeria qualify for next year's AFCON in Ivory Coast.

However, Okoye's immediate attention will turn to Watford, where he is set to play next season after signing a five-year deal at the club.