First clean sheet of the season: Okoye sends message to Chelle ahead of Nigeria squad announcement

Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye marked his first clean sheet of the season with a confident display in Udinese's victory over Ademola Lookman's Atalanta on Saturday, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

Okoye seized the occasion to remind Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle of his quality and readiness for a national team return, with anticipation growing ahead of next week's squad announcement.

In truth, the former Sparta Rotterdam shot-stopper was rarely troubled, as all five of Atalanta's attempts on goal failed to hit the target. 

The Bianconeri clinched their second consecutive home win of the campaign courtesy of Nicolò Zaniolo’s strike five minutes before the interval.

Okoye's clean sheet was his first in Serie A since April 28, 2025, when he denied Bologna at the Bluenergy Stadium . 

It also marked a personal redemption story for the 26-year-old, who served an eight-game ban earlier this season due to a betting-related offence.

Following his return, Okoye conceded six goals in his first three appearances of the 2025–26 campaign. 

However, his recent resurgence suggests the Super Eagles goalkeeper is finding his rhythm once again.

The former Watford man was omitted from Chelle's squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda, South Africa, Lesotho and Benin, but his latest performance could force the manager to reconsider.

In his only appearance under the Malian tactician, a 1-1 draw in a friendly against Russia last June, Okoye impressed with a calm display, effectively passing his audition for a future role.
 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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