Maduka Okoye has described Udinese’s 1-1 draw with Como as an important point after another impressive display between the posts on the opening weekend of the new Serie A season. Consequently, the Super Eagles goalkeeper’s man-of-the-match performance ensured the Friulians began their campaign unbeaten, despite failing to hold on to victory at the Bluenergy Stadium.
From the outset, Udinese made the better start and eventually broke the deadlock in the 29th minute, as Hassane Kamara finished clinically after a well-timed pass from Jurgen Ekkelenkamp. However, Como responded with greater urgency after the break.
Anastasios Douvikas restored parity nine minutes into the second half to leave both sides fighting for a winner that never arrived.
Nevertheless, Okoye ensured Udinese did not leave empty-handed, producing five crucial saves across the 90 minutes, including a standout stop to deny Douvikas from immediately putting Como ahead following the equaliser. As a result, the Nigerian international was named man of the match, continuing the impressive form he showed in Udinese’s Coppa Italia victory over Padova the previous week.
Speaking after the final whistle, Okoye reflected on the outcome with a mix of satisfaction and ambition. He said it was an important point, adding that Udinese had played against a strong team and were happy with the result. Furthermore, he stressed that although the team had gone out to win, a point was ultimately a good outcome given the circumstances.
Additionally, the goalkeeper was quick to credit his teammates rather than dwell solely on his own contribution, praising the collective performance and stating that the whole squad could be pleased with the display.
Therefore, his comments underlined a growing leadership role within the Udinese dressing room as he continues to establish himself as a first-choice figure for Kosta Runjaic’s side.
Okoye’s opening-day heroics will offer significant reassurance to Eric Chelle ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming international commitments. Indeed, the shot-stopper’s composure and shot-stopping ability against a Como side many tip for a strong campaign reaffirm his standing as one of the country’s most reliable goalkeeping options.
Moreover, a positive start to the club season is likely to boost his confidence heading into any forthcoming Super Eagles call-ups, particularly given the goalkeeping competition within the national team setup
Following this result, Udinese will look to build on their unbeaten start when Serie A action continues, while Okoye will aim to maintain the consistency that has defined his recent performances.
Meanwhile, Como, who remain one of the division’s most closely watched sides this season, will search for their first win of the campaign in their next fixture. Ultimately, Saturday’s result offers both sides plenty to work with as the new Serie A season gathers pace.
