Udinese may have suffered a 3–1 defeat to Juventus at the Allianz Stadium on Wednesday night, but Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was one of the standout performers in the Serie A clash.
The 24-year-old was making only his third appearance since returning from a two-month suspension for betting irregularities, yet he looked sharp and confident throughout the game.
Okoye pulled off nine impressive saves, five of them from inside the box, to keep his side in contention for much of the match. His efforts earned him the highest rating on the pitch, with an 8.2 score from match analysts.
Juventus took the lead early through a Dusan Vlahovic penalty, but Udinese equalised before half-time when Nicolo Zaniolo finished off a quick counterattack.
The home side regained control after the break as Federico Gatti’s header made it 2–1, before substitute Kenan Yildiz converted a late penalty to seal the win.
Despite the result, Okoye’s performance drew praise from fans and pundits alike. He denied several clear chances from Vlahovic and Filip Kostic, showing excellent reflexes and composure.
Speaking after the match, Okoye admitted the defeat was disappointing but said the team would take positives from the performance.
“We played a good game together; it’s always difficult against Juventus. We’re not happy, but we know we played well and will take the positives into the next match,” he said.
“I’ve been out for a while, and it’s not easy being away from football, but I feel good and happy to be back. I want to grow, and I’m learning every day.”
Udinese will hope to build on their improved display when they return to action next weekend, while Okoye’s fine form could boost his chances of earning a recall to the Super Eagles squad for next month’s World Cup playoff against Gabon.