Eredivisie: Okoye saves Sparta Rotterdam from defeat

The shot-stopper had an opening day to forget as he conceded four times, but he fared better in the second match of the season

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye made crucial saves to help Sparta Rotterdam to a 1-1 draw against Heracles in their second match of the new Eredivisie season.

Sparta suffered an embarring 4-0 loss at Utrecht in their opening match of the season, but they gave a much-improved display on Saturday to pick up their first point.

The performance of their Nigerian import was key in earning the point. The 21-year-old made three crucial saves, including two from the box, to ensure Sparta salvage a point from the clash.

The game started with Henk Fraser’s men showing more intent going forward. And they eventually took the lead courtesy of a strike from Bart Vriends five minutes before the break.

Heracles tried to find the equaliser, but they were denied by Okoye on multiple occasions. It appeared they would not be able to breach the Nigerian’s goal until Delano Burgzorg popped up in the 77th minute to break Sparta’s hearts.