Maduka Okoye happy with Udinese victory over AS Roma

Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye expressed satisfaction after helping Italian Serie A side Udinese defeat AS Roma on Monday.

​The Zebras claimed a surprise 1-0 win over the Giallorossi at the Bluenergy Stadium. Jürgen Ekkelenkamp scored the winning goal from a deflected free kick four minutes after the break, while Okoye made several vital saves—including a key stop against Donyell Malen—to help the home team preserve their lead.

​The Nigeria international quoted on the club’s official website, praised his teammates for their spirited effort, noting that the squad is working hard to ensure they continue winning games and making their fans happy.

​“I’m happy to have helped the team today. We put in a great performance; I’m happy for ourselves and for the fans. We’re working hard and staying united, from the players to the staff. We can compete with anyone.”

Che bello è… ✍️🤍🖤

Grazie per l’enorme supporto, bianconeri 🫶 pic.twitter.com/yhGEUkcKTp

— Udinese Calcio (@Udinese_1896) February 3, 2026

​This result marks a second consecutive win for Udinese. The victory propelled the Bianconeri to 32 points, moving them into eighth place in the standings, tied with Lazio.

The Friuli-based side recorded a surprise 1–0 win over the Giallorossi at the Bluenergy Stadium, a result that underlined Udinese’s growing confidence and defensive solidity in the second half of the season. The match-winning moment arrived just four minutes after the restart when Dutch midfielder Jürgen Ekkelenkamp fired home a free kick that took a decisive deflection, leaving Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar with no chance.

While Ekkelenkamp’s goal made the headlines, it was Maduka Okoye’s commanding performance between the posts that proved crucial in preserving the narrow advantage. The Nigerian international produced several important saves throughout the contest, most notably a sharp reaction stop to deny Donyell Malen, who looked poised to equalise during Roma’s strongest spell of pressure.

Okoye shines on a big night

Facing one of Serie A’s most attack-minded sides, Okoye displayed composure, strong positioning, and excellent shot-stopping ability. Roma dominated possession for large portions of the game, but the Udinese goalkeeper remained alert and decisive whenever called upon, helping frustrate the visitors and energise the home crowd.

Speaking after the match on the club’s official website, Okoye praised the collective effort of the squad and highlighted the unity within the dressing room as a key factor behind their recent upturn in form.

“I’m happy to have helped the team today,” Okoye said. “We put in a great performance; I’m happy for ourselves and for the fans. We’re working hard and staying united, from the players to the staff. We can compete with anyone.”

His comments reflected the growing belief within the Udinese camp that they are capable of challenging stronger opponents, particularly when they remain compact and disciplined defensively.

Tactical discipline pays off

Udinese approached the match with a clear game plan: remain organised at the back, limit Roma’s space in the final third, and capitalise on set-piece opportunities. That strategy paid off perfectly. Despite Roma’s attacking quality and depth, the hosts restricted clear-cut chances and forced the visitors into taking shots from less dangerous positions.

Okoye’s communication with his defenders was evident throughout the game, as he consistently marshalled his back line and ensured concentration levels remained high, especially during the closing stages when Roma pushed forward in search of an equaliser.