Leicester defender on Eric Chelle's radar scores first Premier League goal in 2-2 draw against Brighton

Leicester City defender Caleb Okoli scored his first goal in the Premier League to help the Foxes secure a 2-2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday afternoon.

The 23-year-old centre-back, who is of Nigerian descent and currently being monitored by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, powered home a crucial header in the 74th minute to level the score at the Amex Stadium.

Okoli latched onto a precise delivery from El Khannouss, converting from a right-wing free-kick to register his debut goal since joining Leicester City from Atalanta in the summer of 2024.

Brighton had taken the lead through Brazilian forward João Pedro, who scored twice from the penalty spot in the 31st and 55th minutes. 

Leicester responded in the 38th minute through Stephy Mavididi, before Okoli’s late header salvaged a point for the visitors.

Okoli’s standout performance is expected to further intensify interest from Eric Chelle, who is actively scouting players of Nigerian heritage in Europe to bolster the Super Eagles squad.

The Nigerian coach is reportedly keen to convince Okoli—who has represented Italy at youth level—to commit his international future to Nigeria ahead of the Unity Cup tournament scheduled to be held in London.

His imposing presence, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball are qualities that the Super Eagles could benefit from, especially in light of their recent struggles in World Cup qualifying.

Despite holding the lead until the final five minutes of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, Nigeria conceded a late equalizer—raising fresh concerns over their qualification hopes.

The result has further highlighted the team’s defensive vulnerabilities, prompting calls for the inclusion of more players of Nigerian descent from abroad to strengthen the squad ahead of the remaining qualifiers.

With his form peaking at the right time, Chelle will be hoping Okoli commits to the Nigerian national team in time for the crucial resumption of the World Cup qualifiers in September.

Adeyemi Adewale

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