Maduka Okoye Silences San Siro: Super Eagles Star Sets Career Record in Milan Thrashing

Tolu Shotade

Editor

Last updated: Mon 13 Apr 2026 10:25

Share

Tolu Shotade 3 hours ago

Share this article

Maduka Okoye achieved his third consecutive clean sheet in Serie A.
Udinese defeated AC Milan 3-0, with Okoye's pivotal saves in the second half.
Okoye's form sparks a competitive selection for Nigeria's national team.

Maduka Okoye

Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has etched his name into the history books following a masterclass performance in Udinese’s stunning 3-0 victory over AC Milan at the San Siro.

The 26-year-old Nigerian international recorded his third consecutive clean sheet in Serie A, marking the first time in his professional club career that he has gone three straight top-flight matches without conceding a goal.

A Historic Trio of Shutouts

Okoye’s record-breaking run began with a disciplined display against Genoa and was sustained with a commanding performance against Como. However, the ultimate test arrived in Milan. Facing one of the league’s most potent attacks, featuring the likes of Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic, Okoye remained impenetrable.

The shot-stopper produced two world-class "monster saves" in quick succession early in the second half to deny a Milan comeback, ensuring Udinese’s 3-0 lead remained intact. This milestone is even more impressive considering Okoye only recently returned from a thigh injury that sidelined him during the March international break.

Match Highlights: Udinese Dominate the Rossoneri

While Okoye provided the security at the back, Udinese’s attackers were clinical at the other end. The Friulani took control through a rapid counter-attack led by Zaniolo, whose effort eventually resulted in an opening goal after a deflection off Milan’s Bartesaghi.

Jurgen Ekkelenkamp doubled the lead with a powerful header before the half-time whistle, and Udinese added a third to complete the humiliation of the home side.

Super Eagles Selection Headache

Okoye’s scintillating form in Italy comes at a perfect time for Nigeria. With 8 clean sheets in 24 Serie A appearances this season, he is making a deafening case to reclaim the Super Eagles' number one shirt ahead of the June international window.

Following FIFA's approval of Arthur Okonkwo’s switch, Nigeria now boasts one of the deepest goalkeeping pools in Africa, featuring Okoye, Nwabali, and the newly eligible Wrexham star.