Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye marked his return to competitive football on Monday evening as Udinese secured a 1-1 draw against Cremonese at the Stadio Giovanni Zini, Bold Sports reports.
The 26-year-old shot-stopper had been sidelined for two months after receiving a suspension from the Italian National Federal Tribunal for his alleged involvement in betting-related misconduct during a league match against Lazio on March 11, 2024. He was found guilty of intentionally receiving a yellow card, which authorities said triggered an “abnormal flow of bets.”
During Okoye’s absence, Romanian goalkeeper Razvan Sava deputised between the sticks, featuring in six league matches and two Coppa Italia fixtures. However, Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic wasted no time reinstating Okoye as his first-choice goalkeeper upon the Nigerian’s return.
Cremonese made a fast start to the encounter, taking the lead in the fourth minute through Filippo Terracciano, but Udinese fought their way back into the contest. Nicolo Zaniolo restored parity for the visitors in the 51st minute, heading home a well-delivered cross to secure a share of the spoils.
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Okoye produced a composed performance on his comeback, making two saves and completing 76% of his passes, showing confidence in his distribution and command of the box.
While Udinese’s winless run in the league extended to four matches, the draw lifted them to 11th place on the Serie A table with nine points, one behind 10th-placed Cremonese.
For the Super Eagles, Okoye’s return to form comes at a crucial time ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying playoffs and preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. His availability offers head coach Eric Chelle an important boost as the team aims for continental and global success.
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