‘Impossible to score against him in training’ — Nani praises Okoye amidst fight for Super Eagles No.1 shirt

Udinese technical director Gianluca Nani has hailed Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye for his remarkable form since returning to action after suspension.

Nani revealed that Okoye was “impossible to score against in training” as the Nigerian re-established himself as Udinese’s number one.

After being sidelined for Udinese’s opening eight matches of the season, Maduka Okoye made a triumphant return to action in the 1-1 draw against US Cremonese.

Despite being inactive for nearly five months, the 24-year-old showed no trace of rust, producing a series of commanding saves, including a crucial stop to deny Jamie Vardy from point-blank range.

Explaining the decision to restore the Nigerian to the starting XI, Nani told DAZN (via Tutto Udinese): “Okoye has trained really well in recent weeks; it was almost impossible to score against him in training.

“We’re really happy he’s back because he’s our starting goalkeeper and there were never any doubts. But I want to thank whoever replaced him, who did very well.”

His words underline the club’s continued faith in Okoye as their number one. His sharp return could not have come at a better time for Udinese, who have struggled to maintain defensive solidity in his absence.

Okoye’s resurgence is also a timely boost for Nigeria, where competition for the number one shirt has intensified under head coach Eric Chelle.

The Super Eagles boss is set to announce his squad for next month’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon, and Okoye’s strong showing will strengthen his claim for a recall.

The former Watford goalkeeper last featured for Nigeria in a friendly against Russia in June 2025 but has since faced competition from Adebayo Adeleye and Francis Uzoho.

With his confidence restored and form rediscovered, Okoye’s heroics in Italy could make him the frontrunner once again to guard the posts for the Super Eagles.