Maduka Okoye: Udinese coach responds to goalkeeper’s blunder in 2-1 loss to Torino

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has come under fire for his error in Udinese's 2-1 loss to Torino, with coach Kosta Runjaic clarifying what happened at the Olympic Stadium in Turin.

The 27-year-old was involved in the decisive moment of yesterday’s Serie A encounter after colliding with teammate Nicolò Bertola while attempting to deal with a ball in the Udinese penalty area.

The misunderstanding left the goal exposed, allowing Torino substitute Sandro Kulenović to score in the 67th minute and secure all three points for the hosts.

Runjaic reacts to Maduka Okoye's costly mistake

Speaking to DAZN after the match, Runjaic acknowledged that Udinese would likely have earned a point without the misunderstanding between Okoye and Bertola.

“Without that error between Bertola and Okoye, the match would probably have ended in a draw,” the German tactician said in quotes revealed by Tutto Udinese.

He added that the team could not be satisfied with a fourth straight league defeat, although he did not believe Udinese played badly against Torino last night.

Runjaic took responsibility for the result, acknowledging that the mistake influenced the outcome. He also identified communication, aggression and awareness of danger as areas in which his team needed to improve.

“In the last two matches, we have had blackouts caused by a lack of awareness of danger, a lack of aggression and an absence of communication,” Runjaic explained.

He referred to the defensive error involving Christian Kabasele against Cagliari, suggesting that the incident against Torino was part of a recurring problem rather than an isolated setback.

The comments offer an important distinction for Okoye, who was directly involved in the winner but was not the only player implicated in the misunderstanding.

Runjaic explains how Alaba could help Udinese

Runjaic also discussed David Alaba’s contribution when asked whether the Austrian defender could help resolve Udinese’s defensive problems.

The former Real Madrid defender joined Udinese in September and brings considerable experience from his spells with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

“He will certainly help us with his experience, communication during the week and his energy,” the 55-year-old added.

However, the coach warned against placing the entire burden on Alaba, stressing that defensive improvement would require huge effort from the whole squad.

“We must not put all the pressure on him alone. He is part of the team, and all the players must maintain the maximum level of concentration,” he added.

The comments underline why Alaba’s arrival could be significant. His experience and organisational qualities may help Udinese improve their defensive communication.

Born to a Nigerian father in Austria, David Alaba is capable of playing several positions across midfield and defence for the two-time Serie B champions.

Udinese coach accepts responsibility after fourth straight defeat

Runjaic was candid during his post-match press conference, where he admitted that he also had responsibility for the team's situation.

“I have a responsibility too, as head coach,” he said, while describing the defensive lapse as a costly error that led to the decisive goal.

He also pointed out that Torino’s opening goal had come from a set piece, another aspect of the performance that Udinese need to examine, as it was evident in their loss to Inter Milan.

Despite his frustration, Runjaic said he would try to keep the squad united and maintain morale as the team works to recover from its difficult run.

Udinese are currently 15th on the Serie A table, with four points from six games. They play against Lecce next Sunday.