Jelicia Westhoff, who is alleged to be the girlfriend of Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, has sent him a message of support in the face of criticism following the team’s exit from the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon.
Okoye, 22, has been targeted by trolls on social media after he was unable to save a shot by Youssef M’Sakni in the 46th minute.
The shot-stopper, who gained the admiration of Nigerian female fans during the team’s time at the tournament over his looks, has been forced to disable comments on his social media posts.
However, Westhoff, who is reportedly based in The Netherlands, said in a post to Instastory that she stands by him whether he is on the winning or losing side.
“We are proud of you, not just when you win, or when you stop a ball but because of the person you are from the inside,” she wrote.
“I’m proud of your efforts, your focus, your drive, and how you never give up. You helped the team and made a big mark while there. You deserve to be celebrated for making it this far.”
Okoye was born in Düsseldorf, Germany to a Nigerian father and a German mother.
Some of his critics also say Francis Uzoho should have been considered ahead of him.
