Maduka Okoye Shines On Serie A Return After Two-Month Suspension
2 min read
By Sportsgister
Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye made a triumphant return to action for Udinese on Monday night, as the Serie A side battled to a 1–1 draw away to Cremonese at the Stadio Giovanni Zini.
The 25-year-old shot-stopper was back between the posts for the first time this season after serving a two-month suspension imposed prior to the 2025/26 campaign. The temporary ban, issued by Italian football authorities, stemmed from betting irregularities linked to some of his close associates—though Okoye himself was not directly implicated.
Upon his return, head coach Kosta Runjaic wasted no time reinstating him as Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper, underscoring his continued trust in the Nigerian international.
Okoye endured a shaky start, conceding an early goal in the third minute when Filippo Terracciano nodded home from Jari Vandeputte’s cross. However, he quickly rediscovered his rhythm, pulling off two decisive saves to keep Udinese in the game. His composure, distribution, and leadership stood out, completing 22 of 29 passes and launching several long balls that sparked counterattacks.
His defining moment came in the second half, when he produced a crucial save to deny Jamie Vardy from close range, preserving Udinese’s hopes of a comeback.
Coach Runjaic praised Okoye’s professionalism after the match, saying:
“Okoye has always been our number one, even when he wasn’t available. He trained hard during his suspension and used that time to reflect and improve. We’re delighted to have him back.”
Udinese’s persistence paid off when Nicolò Zaniolo equalised in the 50th minute, heading home Alessandro Zanoli’s cross to earn the visitors a valuable point. The result extended Cremonese’s ten-match unbeaten home run, while Udinese climbed into mid-table.
For Nigeria, Okoye’s return comes as a timely boost ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs in November. His sharp form and renewed confidence could reignite competition in the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping ranks, particularly as Stanley Nwabali faces scrutiny over recent performances.
Okoye’s strong comeback not only stabilises Udinese’s backline but also bolsters the Super Eagles’ prospects, giving head coach Finidi George another dependable option in goal as crucial international fixtures approach.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
