Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo finally made his long-awaited Nigeria debut on Tuesday, keeping a clean sheet as the Super Eagles beat Zimbabwe 2-0 to advance to the final of the 2026 Unity Cup, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
- +Wrexham hails Okonkwo after clean sheet on Eagles debut
The Wrexham AFC goalkeeper had previously represented England at youth level but qualified to play for Nigeria through his parents.
The Wrexham AFC goalkeeper had previously represented England at youth level but qualified to play for Nigeria through his parents.
FIFA confirmed his eligibility for the Super Eagles in April.
He was named in the starting line-up on Tuesday and produced a composed performance to help Nigeria keep a clean sheet.
“A clean sheet for Arthur Okonkwo on Super Eagles debut,” Wrexham AFC posted on X after the goalkeeper helped Nigeria secure a place in the final of the Unity Cup.
Named among the debutants by coach Eric Chelle, the 24-year-old will now hope to retain his place for the final as well as earn another opportunity during the June friendlies against Portugal and Poland.
It is another significant milestone for Okonkwo, who has played a major role in Wrexham’s recent success story.
The goalkeeper initially joined Wrexham on loan from Arsenal FC in 2023 before making the move permanent in the summer of 2024 following his release by the Premier League club, signing a three-year deal.
During his time at the Racecourse Ground, Okonkwo has enjoyed back-to-back promotions. He was named in the League Two Team of the Season for the 2023/24 campaign and also helped Phil Parkinson’s side mount a strong push in the Championship this season.
He made 39 appearances for Wrexham during the campaign, keeping 10 clean sheets.
Following his invitation to the Super Eagles, the goalkeeper expressed his excitement about representing Nigeria.
“It’s an honour being given the opportunity to play for your country. I am so excited, I can’t wait. To finally have the opportunity is incredible,” he said.
