Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has been the focus of intense criticism following the Super Eagles’ 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Monday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, MySportDab Reports.
Despite Nigeria’s guaranteed qualification for AFCON 2025 in Morocco, the loss to Rwanda—a team they had never lost to before—left fans outraged.
Substitute Samuel Chukwueze gave the Super Eagles the lead in the 59th minute with a brilliant finish from Frank Onyeka’s pass.
However, Rwanda equalized in the 72nd minute when Jojea Kwizera capitalized on a defensive lapse. Just two minutes later, Innocent Nshuti sealed a stunning comeback, firing past Okoye to secure the historic victory.
Okoye, deputizing for the unavailable Stanley Nwabali, came under fire for his performances in both goals. His decision-making and reaction times were widely criticized by fans on social media, with many questioning his readiness for international duties.
The Udinese goalkeeper had recently regained form in Serie A, earning him a recall to the national team, but his showing in Uyo overshadowed his club achievements.
The loss did not affect Nigeria’s standing in the group as they finished top, but it highlighted defensive vulnerabilities and raised questions about the goalkeeping department ahead of next year’s tournament.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen and his squad will need to regroup and address these concerns as they prepare for tougher AFCON challenges. Meanwhile, fans are calling for changes to the team’s setup, particularly between the posts, to avoid a repeat of such disappointments.
