‘It's not an easy situation’ — Udinese boss defends Okoye after shaky performance in Serie A

Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic has come to the defence of Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye after a nervy display in his side’s 3-2 Serie A victory over Lecce on Saturday.

Despite a few shaky moments, the coach insisted Okoye deserves understanding given his recent absence from competitive football.

After serving a two-month suspension for a betting-related offence, Okoye was thrust back into Udinese’s starting lineup, marking his second appearance of the campaign.

The Nigerian shot-stopper looked rusty at times, conceding two second-half goals and struggling with his command during set pieces.

Udinese had raced into a 2-0 halftime lead through Jesper Karlstrom and Keinan Davis, but Okoye was beaten by Medon Berisha’s free-kick in the 58th minute before misjudging a corner moments later.

Although Adam Buksa later restored the cushion, Konan N'Dri’s late strike again left Okoye picking the ball out of his net.

Runjaic, however, was quick to protect his goalkeeper, stressing that the circumstances were far from ideal for someone returning from a lengthy spell without match practice, saying that Okoye “tried to give his all” and that the victory would be a mental boost for the player.

While Udinese celebrated their second win of the season, Okoye’s form remains a concern for Nigerian fans and national team coach Eric Chelle.

The Super Eagles manager is closely monitoring the 24-year-old’s performances ahead of next month’s 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff against Gabon.

Okoye’s inconsistency has been a recurring topic among supporters, especially as he battles for the No.1 spot alongside Stanley Nwabali.

Runjaic’s public support could prove crucial in rebuilding the goalkeeper’s confidence as he works his way back to top form.