Okonkwo Sets AFCON, World Cup Targets With Super Eagles

Arthur Okonkwo has set his sights on winning the Africa Cup of Nations and playing at the FIFA World Cup with the Super Eagles as he prepares for a possible competitive debut for Nigeria.

The 24-year-old goalkeeper could make his first competitive appearance for the three-time African champions when Nigeria host Madagascar in their opening 2027 AFCON qualifier in Uyo on Friday.

Okonkwo made his Super Eagles debut against Zimbabwe at the Unity Cup in May and was also part of the squad for the June friendlies against Poland and Portugal.

The Coventry City goalkeeper is now looking to take the next step with the national team.

‘I want to win the AFCON and compete at the World Cup. That’s one of my biggest ambitions as a footballer,’ Okonkwo told the media in Uyo on Wednesday.

Having only recently established himself in the senior setup, Okonkwo said he is focused on learning from his more experienced teammates and improving with every camp.

‘At the moment, it’s still early. I want to learn from everyone and learn new things. The previous camp was good for me,’ he said.

‘I want to take things in my stride, keep learning, keep improving, and hopefully one day contribute positively to the Super Eagles.’

Okonkwo faces competition from Maduka Okoye and Stanley Nwabali for the starting goalkeeper’s position as Nigeria begin their AFCON qualifying campaign.

The Super Eagles will then travel to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29, with six points from their opening two fixtures providing an ideal start to their qualification campaign.