Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has revealed he played with a hand injury for the past two months before finally undergoing surgery.
The Udinese shot-stopper shared the update on his Instagram page, expressing optimism about his recovery and return to form.
“Surgery is done… played the last two months with a broken ligament in my hand,” he posted. “For now I’ll be supporting the team from the stands, recover and work hard for a comeback in top form.”
Okoye sustained the wrist injury during a Serie A match against Genoa. Udinese confirmed that the 25-year-old underwent successful surgery on Tuesday, sidelining him for an estimated three months, according to reports in the Italian media.
The injury and subsequent recovery period put Okoye’s participation in Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in doubt. The Super Eagles are currently fifth in their group with three points, trailing leaders Rwanda by four points. With only six matches left in the group stage, Nigeria faces a daunting challenge, needing to win all their remaining games to keep their qualification hopes alive.
The absence of Okoye, a key player for the national team, adds to the Super Eagles’ woes as they prepare for a must-win match against Rwanda. Fans and teammates alike will be hoping for his speedy recovery and return to action.