From Akpeyi to Okoye, Eagles’ goalkeeping problem continues

By : Gowon Akpodonor

Date: 25 January 2022 4:06am WAT

Maduka Okoye (middle) was in goal for Nigeria in the round of 16 clash against Tunisia…

Daniel Akpeyi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa) at the Eagles training camp. Photo/facebook/ngsupereagles/

At Egypt 2019 AFCON, many football-loving Nigerians put the blame for Super Eagles defeat to Algeria in the semifinals on the shoulders of goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi.

The situation repeated itself on Sunday at the Stade Rounde Adjio in Garoau, Cameroon.
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The Eagles crashed out of the AFCON tournament after losing to the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia 0-1.

To some Nigerians, it was a painful exit, especially, after the team had raised the hopes of fans back home.
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At Egypt 2019, Super Eagles had all the support to beat Algeria. The match was going on well until Akpeyi’s wrong positioning gave Riyad Mahrez the opportunity to score from a free kick from outside the box.

Maduka Okoye (middle) was in goal for Nigeria in the round of 16 clash against Tunisia…on Sunday

Again, on Sunday in Garoau, Nigeria was tagged favourites, but Okoye ruined the day, as he failed to save Youssef Msakni’s long-range strike two minutes into the second half.

Many Nigerians, including Cameroonians, who watched the game blamed goalkeeper Okoye, who they believed should have done better with Msakni’s shot.
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