Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye says he is sad after pulling out of Nigeria’s squad to face Ghana in a 2022 FIFA World Cup final playoffs because he tested COVID-19 positive a day before his flight.
Okoye, who plays for Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper was replaced by Enyimba’s John Noble in the squad.
The two West African countries will face each other over two legs scheduled for Friday, March 25, and Tuesday, March 29, 2022.
The winner of the tie will represent the continent at the World football showpiece which is scheduled to take place from November 21 to December 18.
“I was tested positive a day before my flight and I did a second test also positive,”Okoye told Ojbsports.
“It’s unfortunate, but I just want to send my love to the people and to the team and best of luck for this big clash.
“I’m very sad to miss this big game, but I’m sure the team will do the job, and we’ll meet again in Qatar. So best of luck Nigeria and may God bring us victory.”
The winner of the tie will represent the continent at the World football showpiece which is scheduled to take place from November 21 to December 18.
The Super Eagles are seeking to qualify for the global showpiece a 7th time and, since 1994, have missed only one of seven editions. The last of three appearances by Ghana was in 2014.
Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved Ghana’s request to admit 40,000 spectators for the first leg match against Nigeria at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
This comes after the Ghana Football Association's request to play the game in a full capacity stadium following the laid-down rules by CAF.