Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye expressed mixed emotions after Udinese’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Lazio in Serie A Round 34, a match that ended in heartbreak for the visitors after a stoppage-time equaliser at the Stadio Olimpico. The result, which saw Udinese twice come from behind to take the lead, ultimately ended in a hard-fought point for both sides, leaving Okoye reflecting on what could have been. The Nigerian shot-stopper admitted the late concession felt like a two-point loss, despite the significance of securing a point away at a tough opponent like Lazio.
Udinese started strongly, with Kingsley Ehizibue opening the scoring with a powerful strike that gave the visitors an early advantage. Lazio, however, responded after halftime, with Luca Pellegrini breaking his goal drought in style before Pedro added a second to put the hosts ahead for the first time. The momentum shifted again in the closing stages as Arthur Atta emerged as Udinese’s hero, first equalising from close range and then firing home a second goal in stoppage time to seemingly secure a historic away win. But in the final seconds, Daniel Maldini pounced on a loose ball to level the score, leaving the crowd stunned and Udinese frustrated.
Okoye, who kept his composure throughout the chaotic finale, acknowledged the emotional rollercoaster of the match. He told Udinese’s official website, “Now the feeling is more of a two-point drop, but tomorrow we’ll realize we’ve earned an important point away to Lazio, which isn’t easy. We’re disappointed now, but we have to move forward.” He also highlighted the unpredictable nature of football, noting how both teams experienced periods of dominance. “This is football; we were both behind and ahead, and it’s a shame about the goal conceded at the end. It was a good match for the spectators. In the coming days, we’ll see where we need to improve,” he added.
The performance underscored Udinese’s improving form on the road, particularly against top-tier opposition. While the late equaliser was a bitter pill to swallow, the team’s resilience and ability to fight back twice against a strong Lazio side demonstrated their growing confidence. For Lazio, the point maintained their position in the league standings, while Udinese continue their push for a safe finish in the middle of the table. As the season enters its final stretch, both teams will look to build on this intense encounter, with Okoye and his teammates aiming to turn near-misses into victories in the coming weeks.
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