Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye helped Udinese secure a point in their Serie A opener after an impressive individual display against Como on Saturday, Footynaija.com reports.
Udinese began their campaign with a 1-1 draw at home, with Okoye playing a key role in ensuring the Zebrettes avoided defeat against a Como side that pushed strongly for all three points.
Hassane Kamara gave Udinese the lead before the visitors responded after the break through Tasos Douvikas, who followed up after Okoye had produced an excellent save to deny Trevoh Chalobah’s header.
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The Nigeria international had to come to his side’s rescue several times afterwards and finished the contest with five saves, including a superb stop to prevent Douvikas from completing the comeback.
His performance earned him the Man of the Match award and continued the positive form he showed during Udinese’s preparations for the new season.
Despite Udinese’s inability to hold on to their lead, Okoye believes the result provides a solid foundation for their Serie A campaign.
“It’s an important point, we played against a strong team and we are happy. We entered the field to win, but in the end a point is fine,” Okoye said via Udinese’s official website.
“I’m glad to help the team with my saves, but it’s the team that played a great game today. We are all happy.
“Starting over at home in front of our fans is beautiful, they helped us a lot. They are very important to us, we are grateful to have fans like that.”
After beginning the season with a point against Como, Udinese will now turn their attention to their next Serie A assignment away to Monza.
Okoye will be looking to maintain his strong start and continue producing top-class performances as Udinese aim to build on a positive start to the season.
