Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has offered insights into Udinese’s 3-0 defeat to AS Roma in their Serie A clash on Sunday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Okoye, who has been impressive since the start of the season, retained his number-one position in the starting lineup following his clean-sheet performance in Udinese’s win over Como last weekend.
However, Roma proved too strong for Udinese, securing their first win of the season with goals from Artem Dovbyk, Paulo Dybala, and Tommaso Baldanzi.
The defeat marked an end to Okoye’s unbeaten run, as Roma capitalised on key weaknesses in Udinese’s game.
Reflecting on the loss, Okoye highlighted two main factors that led to the team's downfall.
“We started the season well, but today was a difficult match,” the Nigerian international told the club after the match.
“We played against a great team like Roma. We didn’t do enough, we were slow in moving and communicating.”
Okoye emphasised that these lapses in movement and communication allowed Roma to dominate.
“We are disappointed, but we need to look ahead immediately. Salernitana and Inter are two great opportunities. We have to stay focused,” he added.
Despite the setback, Udinese remain third in the Serie A standings with ten points, still ahead of Juventus, Empoli, and reigning champions Inter Milan.
They will be looking to bounce back quickly as they prepare for upcoming clashes against Salernitana and Inter.
