Super Eagles Squad Update Puts Uzoho Back in Focus

Super Eagles Squad Update Puts Uzoho Back in Focus

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have recalled Francis Uzoho for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania. The goalkeeper replaces Maduka Okoye in the 24-man squad announced by the Nigeria Football Federation on November 7.

Uzoho joins Stanley Nwabali and Arthur Okonkwo as the three goalkeepers selected by head coach Éric Chelle. Okoye, who plays for Udinese, is absent from the squad. The NFF announcement does not state why he was omitted, so claims linking the decision to discipline or a specific performance remain unconfirmed.

Why Uzoho is back

Uzoho’s recall gives Chelle another experienced senior international option. The Cyprus-based goalkeeper has previously represented Nigeria and returns to Nigeria’s squad. His inclusion creates competition for the starting position, but does not mean he has been confirmed as first choice.

Nwabali and Okonkwo remain available, leaving Chelle with three goalkeepers to assess. Fitness, training performances and tactical considerations will influence the selection.

Goalkeeper debate returns

The change has brought renewed attention to Nigeria’s goalkeeping options. Supporters will be watching how Chelle balances Uzoho’s experience with the other two selections, particularly after Okoye’s omission.

However, the available reports do not establish a clear consensus among Nigerian fans or provide sufficiently verified individual reactions to quote. The selection should therefore be treated as a talking point around squad choice, rather than evidence that supporters favour one goalkeeper over another.

What it means for the Tanzania matches

Nigeria will host Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on November 13 before travelling to Zanzibar for the return fixture at Amaan Stadium on November 17. The Nigeria Football Federation has confirmed both venues and dates.

Nigeria are second in Group L and need strong results to improve their qualification prospects overall this campaign. Tanzania, as co-hosts of the 2027 tournament alongside Kenya and Uganda, are already assured of participation.

Chelle must now decide whether Nwabali, Uzoho or Okonkwo will start. Uzoho’s return strengthens the available options, but his place in the final team will depend on the coach’s assessment in camp. For now, the recall marks a squad change, not a guaranteed starting role.