Noah Okafor to realise World Cup dream as meeting held after Leeds heroics
Switzerland could possibly recall Noah Okafor to the national team setup after his impressive performances at Leeds United.
Pierluigi Tami, the Swiss side’s director, along with head coach Murat Yakin, were present at Elland Road to see the Whites beat Nottingham Forest 3-1 in the Premier League on 6 February.
The Switzerland national team’s hierarchy then met with the 25-year-old at his home in what appeared to be a clear-the-air talk.
Okafor hasn’t played for his country since 2024, with a public feud between the forward and the management clearly one reason, but he may be able to realise his World Cup dream once again.
Switzerland open to Noah Okafor return after Leeds United performances
Okafor would have certainly caught the eyes of the Swiss delegation after scoring in the win over Forest.
The winger subsequently found the back of the net to level things for the Whites at Stamford Bridge in the 2-2 draw with Chelsea on 10 February.
Tami has now opened the door for the former AC Milan star’s potential return to the Switzerland team ahead of the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA.
Speaking to Blick on 12 February, the Swiss chief said, “We saw a strong performance from Noah, in which he showed what he’s capable of. Afterwards, we had an honest, clarifying, and constructive discussion. This is a good foundation for a possible return of Noah to the national team.”
Okafor hasn’t nailed down his place in the starting lineup this season, but there have been several impactful performances from him off the bench.
With four Premier League goals in 23 appearances, the Switzerland international will surely play a key role in helping the West Yorkshire outfit survive relegation.
Elland Road player set to surprise World Cup chance
Brenden Aaronson will be hoping to represent one of the host nations at the World Cup, with the likes of Daniel James and Ethan Ampadu, and Joel Piroe hoping to take Wales and Suriname, respectively, to the tournament.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin may also have an outside chance of representing England again soon, with the striker in fine form at Leeds.
Thomas Tuchel doesn’t really have a guaranteed backup striker for Harry Kane, giving the former Everton player a chance to make a case for himself.
Calvert-Lewin’s inclusion in the Three Lions’ squad will surely be a surprise, but he warrants it after banging in goals for the West Yorkshire outfit.
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