2026 World Cup qualifier: Super Eagles’ Okoye returns to action for Udinese

Maduka Okoye returned to action for Udinese in a Serie A clash against Lazio on Monday, following a spell on the sidelines due to injury.

Okoye underwent surgery for a torn ligament in his right hand in December.

The 25-year-old had made 14 league appearances for the Zebras before the injury.

The shot-stopper’s return will be music to the ears of Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle.

Chelle included Okoye in a 39-man provisional squad for the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe last week.

The Malian is expected to trim the list to 23 players this week.