BBC actress gushes over Nigerian star in live TV World Cup error | Football | Sport

Sarah Hadland said she would be watching the World Cup just to admire Maduka Okoye, despite Nigeria not qualifying for this summer’s tournament in North America. The 6ft6′ goalkeeper caught the attention of viewers worldwide during his nation’s friendly with Portugal ahead of the coveted competition, earning the moniker of the “sexiest footballer in the world.”

The 26-year-old, who plies his trade at club level with Udinese, featured for the full 90 minutes as his side suffered a 2-1 loss to the European giants, keeping Cristiano Ronaldo at bay for large parts. However, social media users were sent into a frenzy over Okoye’s looks, rather than his footballing ability. And when the topic of the World Cup came up during an appearance on ITV’s This Morning, Miranda star Hadland couldn’t help but gush over the shot-stopper.

When asked if she will be tuning in for the football, the 55-year-old became flushed as she replied: “I will be watching now I’ve seen the Nigerian goalkeeper. Have you seen him?! Wowee, thank you very much!”

When told: “We’re sitting right here,” by another member of the panel, Hadland added: “I mean, I know you are, and I wish he was…I mean, he’s absolutely gorgeous,” before continuing: “I don’t care if he can do Shakespeare. Looking lovely in a tight top, thank you.”

When it was joked: “He’s not watching,” Hadland added: “I’ve got very hot,” as she started fanning herself before joking: “He might be, he might be! Maduka, if you’re watching.”

Should Hadland actually be hoping to watch Okoye at the World Cup, then she will be sincerely disappointed. That’s because the African nation failed to qualify for world football’s most coveted competition.

Despite making it to the second round of qualifying, Nigeria’s hopes and dreams of travelling to USA, Canada and Mexico were shattered by DR Congo in a cold penalty shootout. DR Congo, meanwhile, have failed to hit the ground running in North America, still searching for their first win of the group stages as they head into their final encounter with Uzbekistan on Sunday, June 28.

A 1-1 draw with Portugal in their opener, coupled with a 1-0 loss to Colombia on Wednesday sees them third in the Group K standings. As a result, they will need a heavy win over Uzbekistan, as well as Portugal to falter to Colombia, to reach the knockouts, given Roberto Martinez’s side are ahead by five in terms of goal difference.

Okoye, meanwhile, has also spoken about his new-found, widespread admiration. He told Ahlan Dubai: “Honestly, I think I was not prepared for this because it was quite big. I have had some viral moments here and there, but nothing like this.”