Okoye’s heroics inspire Udinese to victory over Lookman’s Atalanta

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye produced a commanding performance in goal as Udinese earned a 1–0 victory over Ademola Lookman’s Atalanta, extending the visitors’ winless run in Serie A to six matches.

Nicolo Zaniolo’s first-half strike proved decisive at the Bluenergy Stadium, as Kosta Runjaic’s side claimed back-to-back home wins and moved into the top half of the Italian top flight.

Zaniolo, on loan from Galatasaray, broke the deadlock in the 40th minute, meeting Hassane Kamara’s cross with a first-time finish into the top corner beyond Marco Carnesecchi.

It was the 25-year-old’s third goal in four league appearances, continuing his resurgence in Serie A after a difficult spell in Turkey.

Atalanta boss Ivan Juric turned to Lookman shortly after the hour mark, hoping the Nigerian forward could lift a side that last tasted victory in September.

However, Udinese’s well-drilled back line restricted the visitors to few clear chances, and Lookman found little room to operate in the final third.

A late effort from Davide Zappacosta forced a fine save from Okoye, who reacted sharply to preserve his clean sheet — his first of the campaign in four matches.

The 24-year-old Nigerian has steadily re-established himself after returning from a betting ban and is now one of Udinese’s most reliable performers. His recent form could provide Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle with a welcome selection dilemma ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers in November.