Udinese FC coach, Runjaic: Okoye was fantastic in goal vs Bologna

Udinese coach, Kosta Runjaić has hailed Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye as fantastic after the Bianconerris 1-1 draw away at Bologna.

Udinese fell behind just before the hour mark, as Riccardo Orsolini fired home from the penalty spot, but hauled themselves level within a quarter of an hour.

First Florian Thauvin saw a penalty saved, after Martín Payero was brought down in the box, before the ensuing corner saw Lautaro Giannetti rise to head home.

The major highlight of the game was however the saves made by Okoye in the game which Gazzetta Dello Sport, Italy number and highly authoritative sports daily described as decisive.’
And the Nigerian’s performance was appreciated by his coach.

“[Maduka] Okoye had a great game, he played fantastic and is a great guy. Every point is significant,” Runjaić said at the mixed zone and praised his side for the result in their opening game of the 2024/25 Serie A season.

“I am happy. Our first game and a point against a strong opponent. We expected a difficult game. We couldn’t play the way we wanted to. In the first half we conceded too many transitions, due to our mistakes. We believed until the end and we had a bit of luck but we never gave up,” he said.

“The first game is always difficult. We are trying to play more offensively and keep the defensive line higher. Serie A is a very physical league, and we needed physicality against this equally physical Bologna,’ he said.