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Maduka Okoye Tips France to Win 2026 World Cup Trophy

Published

1 hour ago

July 9, 2026

Nigeria goalkeeper Maduka Okoye reveals why France is his choice to win the 2026 World Cup after Germany’s elimination from the tournament

Maduka Okoye, Nigeria goalkeeper and Udinese shot-stopper, has backed France to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, revealing his preferred champion after his first choice, Germany, was eliminated from the tournament.

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Okoye shared his prediction while attending the Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture Show in Paris, where he was asked about his thoughts on the ongoing World Cup and the teams still competing for football’s biggest prize.

The 26-year-old admitted he had initially supported Germany during the tournament but switched his support after the European side’s departure.

“I was rooting for Germany, but, unfortunately, we are out already,” Okoye said, according to a report shared by Dazed on Instagram.

“I think I will go with France,” he added.

France entered the knockout stages among the tournament favourites and are seeking another major international success after their triumph at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The team faced Morocco in the quarter-finals on Thursday, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.

Okoye’s comments come as the World Cup reaches its decisive stages, with several leading nations competing for a place in the final rounds.

His backing of France reflects the reputation of a squad featuring experienced internationals and a strong recent record at major tournaments.

The Nigerian goalkeeper has continued to build his career in European football, becoming a key figure for Udinese after previous spells with clubs in the Netherlands and England.

Although Nigeria did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Okoye remains one of the country’s prominent football figures and has earned recognition for his performances at club level.