Okoye back in action: Super Eagles keeper makes first Udinese appearance in 148 days

Super Eagles shot-stopper Maduka Okoye marked his long-awaited return to action for Udinese in their 1-1 Serie A draw against Cremonese at the Stadio Giovanni Zini on Monday night.

The Nigeria international was back between the sticks for the first time in 148 days after serving a two-month suspension for illegal betting activities.

Before the trip to Lombardy, Okoye had not featured for the Bianconeri since playing the full 90 minutes against Fiorentina on the final day of the 2024–25 season, on May 25, 2025.

Due to the suspension, Okoye missed the first six games of the 2025/2026 campaign, during which Udinese conceded nine goals.

Filippo Terracciano had given Cremonese the lead in the fourth minute before Nicolò Zaniolo drew Udinese level five minutes into teh second half. 

The 25-year-old delivered a strong performance on his return, making two vital saves, including a brilliant stop from inside the box, to keep his side in contention.

The result leaves Udinese in 11th place in Serie A with nine points from their opening seven matches of the season, just one point behind Cremonese.

With his return, Okoye will be hoping to maintain his form and regain his spot in the Super Eagles ahead of Nigeria's crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff ties in November in Morocco.

Adeyemi Adeyemi

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