Super Eagles and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has revealed that Brazilian goalkeeping legend Dida served as his ultimate role model while growing up.
In a recent Q&A session, the Italian-based shot-stopper pointed to the former AC Milan icon—renowned for his Champions League triumphs and commanding presence between the posts—as the standard he aspired to emulate.
The revelation comes on the heels of intense scrutiny regarding Okoye’s recent national team commitments. The goalkeeper faced backlash from pundits and fans alike after arriving late to the Super Eagles camp for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener against Madagascar. While teammates commenced training early in the week, Okoye was spotted in Italy attending Milan Fashion Week—where he modeled Udinese’s new third kit and made headlines alongside American rapper Cardi B.
Although head coach Eric Chelle defended the player, noting that Udinese had secured official permission for the commercial engagement, Stanley Nwabali stepped in to guard the goal during Nigeria’s hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory in Uyo.
Now reintegrated into full training, Okoye looks to put the controversy behind him as the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial Group L showdown against Guinea-Bissau.
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