Maduka Okoye returns for Udinese after 148 days out | OneFootball

Super Eagles goalkeeper shows composure and resilience after betting suspension in 1-1 draw vs Cremonese

Maduka Okoye returns for Udinese after 148 days out

After nearly 5 month away from competitive football Maduka Okoye stood once again where he belongs between the posts, commanding his box and stabilising Udinese’s back line.

The Nigerian goalkeeper marked his long awaited return with composed performance in 1-1 Serie A draw against Cremonese.

Key saves

Okoye responded like man determined to make point. He reorganised his defence, dictated tempo from the back and produced 2 key save including crucial one on one stop against Jamie Vardy in the 59 minute.

That recovery arrived when Nicolo Zaniolo equalised in the 51 minute and though neither side could find winner, the point was enough to lift Udinese to 11th place in Serie A with 9 point from 7 game.

Okoye hadn't featured since 25 May, the final day of the 2024 /25 season following 2 month suspension handed down for breaching betting regulations involving associates.

Cleared of more serious sporting fraud charges, his ban ended on 16 October allowing head coach Kosta Runjaic to immediately restore him as first choice goalkeeper.

His absence was deeply felt. Udinese conceded 9 goal in 6 match without him managing just 1 clean sheet. Against Cremonese, his influence was clear from the start even after Filippo Terracciano put the hosts ahead just 4 minut in.

Super Eagles Implications

Okoye’s return couldn’t have come at more important time. With Nigeria preparing for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff qualifiers in November, the 25 year old now has chance to reclaim the No1 jersey.

Competition remains fierce , Stanley Nwabali has impressed with consistency and Adeleye continues to rise but Okoye’s experience, agility and top flight pedigree give him an edge if he maintains form.