Super Eagles goalkeeping battle intensifies as Eric Chelle invites Arthur Okonkwo for AFCON qualifiers

Former Arsenal academy goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has been included in Nigeria's Super Eagles squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, adding fresh competition to Eric Chelle's goalkeeping department.

The 24-year-old's call-up was confirmed on Monday after his club, Charlton Athletic, announced that he had been selected for Nigeria's September fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Having enjoyed a perfect start to his international career with two clean sheets in two senior appearances, Okonkwo now faces his biggest test yet as the Super Eagles begin a high-stakes qualifying campaign.

Okonkwo's early outings in Nigeria colours could hardly have gone better.

He made his senior debut in a 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe during the Unity Cup semi-final in London before keeping another clean sheet in the 3-0 final win against Jamaica just four days later.

Okonkwo's inclusion has intensified the race for Nigeria's number one shirt.

The former Arsenal goalkeeper will compete with Stanley Nwabali, and Maduka Okoye, the experienced Udinese shot-stopper who remains a trusted option for Chelle.

The competition gives the coaching staff multiple quality choices as Nigeria looks to avoid another disappointing qualifying campaign following the Super Eagles' failure to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles will open their Group L campaign against Madagascar on September 25 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Four days later, they will travel to face Guinea-Bissau in what promises to be another crucial encounter.

Nigeria's route to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations is complicated by the presence of Tanzania, one of the tournament's co-hosts. Although Tanzania have already secured automatic qualification, only one additional team from Group L will advance, increasing the importance of every fixture.