Nigeria international and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye says he is desperate to play in both the Champions League and the World Cup, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Okoye, while talking about his time in Serie A during an interview with the Italian Football Podcast, said playing in the biggest competitions would be special for him.
Okoye is currently with the Super Eagles as they prepare for their second Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda in Kigali on Tuesday following their 3-0 victory over Benin Republic, their first game in the series.
While they have started their 2025 AFCON qualifier campaign on a bright note, the Eagles find themselves in a difficult situation as they sit fifth in Group D of the CAF World Cup qualification with just three points from four games.
He, however, expressed confidence in the team to qualify for the biggest football showpiece.
He said, “Yeah, like you said, we are in a difficult situation right now. But when we all meet up in the national team camp, it’s a great vibe—family vibes. I’m sure that we will get to our goal.
“We have a new coach, so we are looking forward to what’s coming. It would mean the world [to play for Nigeria at the World Cup]. I grew up watching the Super Eagles.
“When my father came home from Nigeria, he always brought Okocha jerseys. To represent my fatherland is a dream. A big tournament like the World Cup would be more special.
“I never considered playing for Germany. It was always Nigeria. I grew up in Germany, but the house was Nigerian with my father, the leader, at home. I didn’t have to make a decision; it was always Nigeria.
“Honestly, in general, not just our attackers, our squad is unbelievably strong, but yeah, as you mention our strikers, I have tough working days facing them.
“To train with top strikers like them helps me learn.”
On his UEFA Champions League dream, he said, “For sure to one day play in the Champions League. I mean, this is what we dream of growing up; this is the number one target.
“But I know I have to take things step by step; I have to work on a lot of things. But I also know that I can be there, so that’s why we all work hard.
“About the Premier League and England, I don’t know yet. I really like it in Italy. I am very happy in Italy. I am learning the language, and I want to spend more time here in Italy.”