Okonkwo dreams World Cup with Nigeria

Super Eagles goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has expressed his ultimate ambition to win the World Cup with Nigeria, while identifying the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as his more immediate goal. Okonkwo recently made his senior international debut in June, featuring in Nigeria's Unity Cup victory and subsequent friendlies against Poland and Portugal. He described the experience of facing strong opposition early in his international career as invaluable.

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It’s my first time in the Nigeria team, and I’m just taking it all in. It was really good to watch how we operate against difficult opponents this month. I’m just enjoying the experience day by day. I’m just so thankful for the opportunity.

Okonkwo, who joined the national team setup after an impressive domestic season with Wrexham, has approached his call-up with humility. He stated his intention to learn from experienced goalkeepers Francis Uzoho and Maduka Okoye rather than immediately challenging for the starting position. Nigeria has missed the last two World Cups, and Okonkwo hopes to help the team end a 14-year AFCON drought, having last won the continental title in 2013.

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My biggest dream would be helping this country win AFCON. It’s been too long. And, of course, to qualify for the World Cup and go as far as possible. I think we have the best country, and we can dream of winning the World Cup.

Beyond his international aspirations, Okonkwo remains committed to helping his club, Wrexham, achieve promotion to the Premier League. Despite narrowly missing out on the playoffs last season, he believes the club's progress under owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney is ongoing. With one year left on his contract, Okonkwo's future at Wrexham may attract attention, but he insists his current focus is solely on playing football.

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I don’t think it was a sad ending. I think, obviously, we were close. So, you know, it hurts a little, but we did really well this season. The next thing is to push for promotion next season. That’s been the idea since I’ve been there, so I don’t see any change for next season.