Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye was in goal for the entire match as Udinese fell to a 3–2 defeat against Fiorentina in a dramatic Serie A clash on Sunday.
The Nigerian shot-stopper, who has now made 25 league appearances this season, was unable to prevent the three goals that sank his side at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
Despite the loss, Okoye remains one of the key figures in Udinese’s squad as the season come to an end.
Udinese took the lead in the first half through Lorenzo Lucca, who latched onto a knockdown from Oumar Solet and fired home a crisp shot from 12 yards into the bottom corner.
However, Fiorentina responded immediately after the break. Nicolò Fagioli scored the equaliser less than a minute into the second half.
After two blocked attempts from the edge of the area, his third effort finally found its way through a crowded box and beat Okoye at the far post.
Fiorentina then went ahead in the 57th minute with a moment of brilliance from Pietro Comuzzo, who stylishly backheeled Amir Richardson’s cross into the net from close range.
Udinese fought back quickly as Christian Kabasele brought them level just four minutes later, making it 2–2.
But the hosts would have the last word, as Fiorentina grabbed the decisive goal to seal all three points, ending Udinese’s hopes of a comeback.
Udinese wrapped up the season in 15th place on the Serie A table with 37 points, just two points above the relegation zone in what was a nervy finish to a difficult season.
Okoye’s performance this season has earned him consistent recognition at the international level.
He has been named in the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming Unity Cup tournament in May and is also expected to feature in Nigeria’s friendly clash against Russia in June.
