Udinese claimed a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Gian Piero Gasperini’s AS Roma, with Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s 49th-minute strike proving decisive.
While the goal secured all three points, it was Maduka Okoye’s heroics between the posts that ultimately made the difference.
Roma were by far the better side in terms of control and possession, dominating the ball with 64 percent and registering 10 shots, three of which were on target.
However, Okoye stood firm.
The Udinese goalkeeper was phenomenal on the night, producing three full-stretch diving saves, completing 16 passes, eight long balls, and making six ball recoveries to frustrate the visitors.
That performance was not the only time he produced a masterclass this season.
Okoye has been outstanding throughout the Serie A season. He has faced 59 shots, making 41 saves a remarkable save accuracy of nearly 70 percent.
He has kept four clean sheets and conceded 18 goals, with four of those coming from the penalty spot.
His distribution has also been a major asset for Udinese. Okoye has completed 284 passes and delivered 103 accurate long balls, consistently helping his side build from the back.
In addition, he has demonstrated excellent awareness, acting as a sweeper-keeper on at least six occasions this season.
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The Nigerian international has committed just one error leading to a goal all campaign, this only proves how consist and reliable he has been this season for Udinese.
With performances like these, Okoye continues to prove his value as one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers.
