Okoye Shines In His First Game Of 2025

Okoye Shines In His First Game Of 2025

Ibrahim Lateef

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye showcased exceptional skills in his first match of 2025, helping Udinese secure a valuable point in a 1-1 draw against SS Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, reports BSNSports.com.ng. 

This match marked Okoye's return after recovering from surgery on his right wrist and navigating an alleged illegal betting and match-fixing scandal.

Udinese, playing without Isaak Touré and Razvan Sava, started the Nigerian shot-stopper between the posts.

The Bianconeri began the game strongly. Although Ivan Provedel blocked a shot from Thauvin from outside the box, Thauvin quickly redeemed himself by initiating a counter-attack with Lorenzo Lucca, leading to Udinese taking the lead.

Lucca received a pass, scoring one of the easiest goals of his career. Lazio responded with their captain, Mattia Zaccagni, who tested Okoye with a remarkable shot that the goalkeeper saved at the far post.

However, Lazio equalized from the resulting corner when Romagnoli capitalized on a header from Mario Gila, finding space at the far post.

Overall, Okoye’s performance was a highlight in what proved to be a competitive matchup.