LLeicester City defender Caleb Okoli made a memorable mark on Saturday afternoon, netting his first-ever Premier League goal to help the Foxes earn a 2-2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium.
The 23-year-old centre-back, who has Nigerian roots and is on the radar of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, rose highest in the 74th minute to meet a pinpoint delivery from El Khannouss.
His powerful header brought Leicester level and marked a special milestone since his summer move from Atalanta in 2024.
Brighton had taken the lead earlier in the match through Brazilian forward João Pedro, who converted twice from the penalty spot—first in the 31st minute, then again in the 55th.
Leicester found their response before the break through Stephy Mavididi, whose goal in the 38th minute gave the visitors a lifeline before Okoli completed the comeback.
Okoli’s solid display is expected to fuel even more interest from Chelle, who is reportedly monitoring players of Nigerian descent across Europe in a bid to strengthen the Super Eagles’ ranks.
The Nigerian tactician is said to be eager to secure Okoli’s commitment to Nigeria, despite the defender having previously featured for Italy at youth level.
Chelle hopes to have him in the squad ahead of the Unity Cup tournament scheduled to take place in London.
With Nigeria recently struggling defensively, most notably in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier where they conceded a late equalizer to Zimbabwe after leading until the final minutes, Okoli’s aerial prowess, physical presence, and calmness under pressure offer exactly the kind of reinforcement the team needs.
Calls for the inclusion of more overseas-born Nigerian players have intensified following recent results, and with Okoli hitting form at the perfect time, Chelle will be hopeful that the Leicester man pledges allegiance to Nigeria before the World Cup qualifiers resume in September.
