Nigeria have been dealt a late setback ahead of their international friendly against Jordan, with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye ruled out due to a thigh injury.
The Super Eagles shot-stopper picked up the knock during training and will play no part in Tuesday’s clash. Team media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed the development, stating, “International Friendly: Super Eagles Camp.Maduka Okoye has suffered a thigh knock in training and will not be part of Tuesday’s friendly against Jordan.”
His absence opens the door for Adebayo Adeleye and Francis Uzoho, who are now in line to take over goalkeeping duties as they look to impress head coach Eric Chelle.
Okoye had only just featured prominently in Nigeria’s previous outing, delivering a composed performance in their 2-1 win over Iran in Antalya. The Super Eagles will now have to adjust without him as they aim to build on that result.
Jordan head into the game after playing out a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica in their last friendly. They took control of that match through goals from Baha Faisal and Ibrahim Sabra but were pegged back late on, conceding twice in the closing minutes to settle for a draw.
With both sides looking to fine-tune preparations, Nigeria will hope to maintain momentum despite the absence of their first-choice goalkeeper.
