GK Okoye applauds Flying Eagles star Lawal’s goalscoring display despite NK 1961 Istra’s loss to Udinese

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has reportedly heaped praises on Flying Eagles striker Salim Fargo Lawal for his performance in Udinese's friendly win over NK 1961 Istra, Soccernet.ng reports.

Maduka was in goal as Italian side Udinese carved out a convincing 4-1 victory over Lawal's NK 1961 Istra at the Stadio Comunale di Codroipo.

Lawal made his impact by netting the equaliser for the Croatian side after Brenner had handed Udinese the lead in the 17th minute.

The 21-year-old forward's goal came from a well-executed build-up on the left side of NK 1961 Istra's attack. In the 39th minute, Lawal ran into the box and connected with a low cross from Elias Filet before finishing coolly.

Despite Lawal's goal, Udinese showed their superiority and secured a 4-1 victory with a brace from Lorenzo Lucca and an additional goal from Florian Thauvin.

Okoye was substituted at halftime, while Lawal played the entire match. Nigerian international Isaac Success also made an appearance, coming on as a second-half substitute.

Although Lawal's team lost 4-1, the former Mavlon FC of Lagos forward was a constant threat to Udinese's defence. After the match, Okoye praised Lawal for his impressive performance.

“It was a mixed feeling for me despite scoring because my team lost the game 4-1,” Lawal told Best Choice Sports.

“Though it was a friendly, we were not happy. The good thing was the commendation I got from Maduka Okoye for my goal against him and my overall performance.

“I hope to continue working hard and improving my game as we prepare for the new season.”

Salim Lawal was part of the Flying Eagles squad that reached the quarterfinals of the U20 FIFA World Cup last year, emerging from a group that included Brazil, Italy, and the Dominican Republic.